PH licensed gaming operators form alliance to improve industry amid gov’t review
Provided by INQUIRER.net.
MANILA, Philippines – A collective of licensed online gaming operators has been established “to create a safe and sustainable online gambling environment that contributes positively to the Filipino nation.”
The PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines, composed of 19 founding companies such as DigiPlus Interactive Corp., and World Platinum Technologies Inc., was signed into agreement in a ceremony in Taguig City on Thursday, Aug. 7.
As they pointed out, the collective is committed to promote responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, consumer protection, and fight illegal gambling, which accounts for 70 percent of the online gaming market in the Philippines.
READ: PH gaming operators: Total ban will only push millions of players into black market
This, as the Philippines reviews the local online gambling industry, with lawmakers, regulators, and businessmen debating on how they can balance public welfare and the contributions that the industry brings.
READ: Online sugal: Income for gov’t, scourge for poor Filipinos
“The real enemy when it comes to online gambling is the illegal market. No license, no regulation—minors can play, no taxes are paid, and rules are not followed. Instead of being protected, the public is put at risk,” said its spokesperson, Mike Defensor.
Defensor, president of the World Platinum Technologies Inc. stressed that this is why “strict regulation and close monitoring of legal operators are important to ensure safe, responsible, and fair gaming for everyone.”
Based on a statement, the PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines is expected to collaborate with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to improve industry oversight and compliance, especially on marketing and advertising.
READ: Online gambling addiction: The lures and hoped-for cures
It also seeks to implement a strengthened “Know-Your-Customer” processes such as age verification and self-exclusion programs, while working on initiatives to help deter illegal online gaming operators.
The collective, which is set to onboard an independent advisory panel consisting of local and international experts, will promote consumer education, too, and invest in a nationwide research, education, prevention, and treatment (REPT) programs for online gambling.
READ: Win, lose, lose, win, lose: The cycle keeping Filipinos hooked on e-gambling
It said its REPT programs will include a 24/7 National Gambling Helpline, pointing out that “by working as one, we can ensure that online gambling in the Philippines will be more secure, transparent, and beneficial to both players and the nation.”
(2025/08/08-14:50)
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