The latest survey by the social and cultural research institute "The Fourth Wall" shows that despite the nationwide ban on electronic cockfighting (e-sabong) in the Philippines, unregulated platforms remain active, continuing to promote related gambling activities through social media groups and private messages, raising concerns about player protection and the risk of youth participation.
The study compared platforms regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) such as BingoPlus, PlayTime, 747 Live, with illegal platforms like PHDream, PHFun, Betso88, analyzing aspects such as the number of games, promotional strategies, payment channels, affiliate programs, player verification, trust, and security.
The results show that illegal platforms offer an average of about 5,000 games, significantly more than the 2,900 offered by regulated platforms; their payments and bonuses are unlimited, with higher affiliate commissions, but with minimal verification processes and no formal audits, increasing the risks of fraud and underage participation.
Regulated platforms, on the other hand, enforce strict real-name verification, transaction restrictions, and third-party game audits, with more standardized promotional and affiliate structures. Research Director John Brylle L. Bae pointed out that the banned e-sabong is still easily accessible on illegal platforms, even involving celebrities, highlighting the enforcement dilemma. The report calls for stronger law enforcement and public education, aligning with the recent policy direction of the Philippine Department of the Interior banning officials and employees from participating in online gambling.
