PAGCOR Introduces Comprehensive Strategy to Combat Illegal Online Gambling Amid Technological Challenges

During the inaugural Asia-Pacific Regulators’ Forum held on September 11 at Newport World Resorts, a senior official from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) underscored the threats that rapid technological progression poses to the legal gaming sector. Dr. Angelito Domingo, PAGCOR Vice President for Human Resource and Development Group, emphasized how these advances have cultivated an environment where illegal operators flourish, placing legitimate businesses at a disadvantage.

Dr. Domingo articulated the issue as a convergence of three critical factors: "technology as the tool, the criminal divide as the motive, and social impact as the public outcry," which together generate a "perfect storm" undermining the integrity of lawful gambling activities.

To address these concerns, PAGCOR is rolling out a comprehensive gaming education framework aimed at bolstering player awareness, enhancing operator training, and expanding public outreach. This initiative seeks to mitigate the social repercussions associated with the surge in illegal online gambling.

"Our framework promotes stronger cooperation among gaming and financial regulators, licensed operators, law enforcement agencies, non-government organizations, communities, and the players themselves," Dr. Domingo explained.

He attributed the unprecedented growth of online gaming in the Philippines to the widespread availability of technology and the population's heavy reliance on mobile devices. Highlighting a gap in awareness, Dr. Domingo noted, "Many individuals are unaware of the financial risks involved in gambling. Often, they recognize the consequences only after significant losses, underscoring the importance of early education."

The framework focuses on three core components: educating players on responsible gambling and associated risks; instituting mandatory certification programs for operators’ personnel to identify and assist problem gamblers; and coordinating public outreach campaigns in partnership with NGOs, financial oversight bodies, and law enforcement to foster a unified front against illegal gaming practices.