In the Philippines, against the backdrop of stringent government scrutiny of the online gambling industry, 19 licensed operators announced the formation of the "Philippines PlaySafe Alliance" at the BGC Ascott Tower in Taguig City. The goal is to establish a safe, regulated, and sustainable industry ecosystem and to collaborate with the government to combat illegal gambling.
Members include DigiPlus Interactive Corp., World Platinum Technologies Inc., and others. The alliance spokesperson, Mike Defensor, president of World Platinum, pointed out that illegal gambling accounts for about 70% of the market share. Due to the lack of licenses and regulation, minors can easily participate, the government cannot tax, and consumer rights are unprotected, making it the biggest threat to the industry.
The alliance commits to enhancing self-regulation and cooperation: promoting responsible gambling, strengthening consumer protection, implementing age verification and self-exclusion systems; implementing a nationwide unified KYC mechanism; launching the REPT project (Research, Education, Prevention Plan), and establishing a 24-hour national gambling hotline to educate the public about gambling and provide addiction intervention support. It will also form an independent advisory committee composed of local and international experts to participate in industry governance and policy-making.
Currently, the Philippine Congress is debating the social impact, economic contribution, and regulatory risks of online gambling. The alliance warns that a complete ban on gambling could push millions of legal players towards the black market, thereby increasing regulatory challenges.
