PAGCOR has launched a 24/7 helpline for people dealing with gambling problems. The service gives players and families a direct support line for confidential counselling.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline can be reached at (02) 8248-9568. It connects callers with trained counsellors who can provide support for gaming-related issues.
Helpline offers round-the-clock support
The helpline is part of PAGCOR’s responsible gambling programme. It is for people who may be finding it hard to control gambling activity, as well as relatives who need guidance.
The service is being run in partnership with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc. The group will support counselling and assistance for callers who need help managing gambling-related harm.
The helpline is meant to make support more accessible. The 24/7 format lets people seek help outside office hours, when gambling problems can often become harder to manage.
Online gambling growth adds pressure
The launch comes as online gambling remains a fast-growing part of the Philippine market. PAGCOR has been increasing oversight of electronic games, online platforms and gambling promotions.
That growth has also raised more public concern about gambling harm. Easier access through phones and computers can make it harder for some players to set limits or step away from gambling activity.
The new helpline gives PAGCOR another tool for player protection. It also supports its broader responsible gambling rules for licensed operators.
PAGCOR keeps building safeguards
PAGCOR’s responsible gambling framework already includes exclusion options, operator controls and player protection rules. Licensed gaming establishments must follow its Responsible Gaming Code of Practice.
That code covers harm prevention, underage gambling controls and responsible gaming standards for operators. The helpline adds a more direct support service for people affected by gambling problems. The regulator has also tightened rules on online gambling advertising and player incentives. These measures aim to balance market growth with public protection.
Licensed operators carry player protection duties
PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice requires licensed gaming operators to display responsible gambling information and prevent minors from gambling. Operators must also provide information on self-exclusion and available help services.
The new helpline gives those rules one clear support channel. It also gives operators a clear contact number to share with players who ask for help or show signs of gambling-related harm.
