PAGCOR orders removal of gambling-related billboards, regulates primetime TV ads

Amidst growing calls to curb the promotions and other issues relating to the electronic gaming.

In it memorandum issued on July 7, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation ordered its licensees, suppliers, system administrators, and gaming venue operators to take down out-of-home (OOH) advertisements.

Covered in this directive, which would be implemented on August 15, are billboards and those displayed on public utility vehicles (PUVs) such as trains, buses, jeepneys, and taxis.

The said move is said to be part of the gaming operator’s intensified efforts to regulate gambling-related promotions in public spaces and promote a safer and more responsible environment in the country.

“While PAGCOR is mandated to regulate the gaming industry and generate revenues for nation-building, we do not want to encourage a culture of gambling addiction,” said PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco.

He underscored, “Regulating excessive and pervasive gambling advertisements is a critical step in protecting vulnerable sectors of society, especially the youth.”

By July 16, stakeholders will need to submit their inventory of materials, which include the size, material, location, rental contract expiration, and the corresponding permit number from the Ad Standards Council (ASC).

Moving forward, only institutional or responsible gaming campaigns—subject to PAGCOR’s approval—will be permitted.

Moreover, the agency also warned against replacing the dismantled advertisements with new gambling promotions, stressing that non-compliance will be dealt with accordingly.

Aside from outdoor advertising, PAGCOR will also be regulating those seen on television and heard on the radio, with a new memorandum with the ASC set to be inked on July 16.

Under which, the agency will prohibit advertising of gambling-related materials from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm, with Tengco saying that it is a needed move, citing that it is the usual hours that families dine and bond together after a long day.

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