Philippine lawmakers call for review of online gambling billboard advertising
Lawmakers have questioned the return of online gambling-related billboard campaigns and urged PAGCOR to accelerate new guidelines.
The Philippines.- Lawmakers have called on the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to review the growing presence of billboard advertisements promoting online gaming platforms in Metro Manila. During a hearing of the House Committee on Games and Amusements, Bukidnon 3rd District Representative Audrey Zubiri expressed concern about the reappearance of what she described as “happy-looking” gambling advertisements, despite previous discussions on introducing stronger safeguards and more responsible messaging.
Zubiri urged PAGCOR and the Ad Standards Council (ASC) to reassess the approval process for outdoor advertising campaigns, arguing that some billboards may appeal to vulnerable sectors, including young people. She questioned how certain advertisements were approved despite ongoing discussions about the social impact of gambling-related marketing.
PAGCOR officials responded that new implementing rules and guidelines (IRG) for online gambling advertising are being finalised in coordination with the ASC. According to PAGCOR Gaming Licensing and Development Department Assistant Vice President Ma. Vina Claudette Oca, the new framework is expected to be released in July.
However, Bukidnon 2nd District Representative Jonathan Keith Flores noted that nearly a year has passed since discussions on billboard advertising began and argued that operators continue to find ways to adapt their marketing strategies while waiting for the new rules. Committee chairman and Cavite 6th District Representative Antonio Ferrer suggested temporarily prohibiting online gambling advertisements until the updated guidelines are implemented. PAGCOR said it would provide a formal response to the proposal.
