PAGCOR Orders Removal of Gambling Billboards Nationwide by August 15

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has ordered the dismantling of all billboards and out-of-home gambling advertisements by August 15 to combat gambling addiction and protect vulnerable sectors, particularly the youth. Licensees, suppliers, and gaming venue operators must submit an inventory of existing gambling ads by July 16, including details such as size, location, and permit numbers from the Ad Standards Council (ASC). Moving forward, only institutional or responsible gaming campaigns approved by PAGCOR will be allowed, and replacements for removed ads must promote responsible gaming. PAGCOR is also collaborating with the ASC to regulate online gambling advertisements, including implementing size restrictions and banning ads during peak viewership periods to address both legal and illegal operators. The agency emphasized that regulation, not a total ban, is the key to addressing gambling addiction, while warning against replacing dismantled ads with new promotions and promising enforcement against non-compliance. These efforts reflect PAGCOR's commitment to a safer gaming environment while continuing to generate revenues for nation-building.