PAGCOR and ASC sign agreement to regulate responsible advertising in the Philippines
The partnership introduces mandatory pre-screenings of gambling ads across all media to prevent misleading content and protect vulnerable audiences.
Key points:
– Gambling advertising is now included in ASC’s list of categories requiring prior review, alongside other sensitive sectors
– All gambling ads on TV, radio, digital platforms and outdoor media must be approved by ASC before release
– PAGCOR has ordered the immediate removal of all outdoor gambling ads, with a compliance deadline set for 15 August
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Ad Standards Council (ASC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote responsible advertising practices within the gaming industry.
The agreement, which focuses on the regulation and pre-screening of gambling-related advertisements across all media platforms, was formalised in a ceremony led by PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco and ASC Chairperson Golda Roldan.
Under the agreement, gambling is now added to the ASC’s list of categories subject to mandatory pre-screening, alongside alcoholic beverages, over-the-counter medicines, food supplements, transport services offering promotional fares and breast milk substitutes.
As a result, all branded or corporate gambling advertisements across television, radio, digital platforms and outdoor media must be reviewed and approved by the ASC prior to public release.
This requirement is intended to prevent misleading content and protect vulnerable audiences.
According to Tengco, the Memorandum of Understanding was the result of extensive planning and consultation with the ASC. He clarified that, contrary to some public claims, the initiative was not a rushed reaction to recent issues surrounding illegal online gambling and unregulated advertising.
He said: “Almost a year ago, we began initial talks about this initiative. Today, we are gathered here to formally sign this agreement so that we can immediately execute everything we committed to in this Memorandum of Understanding.
“Our ultimate goal here is simple: To ensure that gambling advertisements are not misleading and do not exploit the vulnerabilities of others.”
Good to know: PAGCOR ordered the immediate removal of all gambling-related outdoor ads, including those on public transport. Licencees must comply by 15 August
Roldan emphasised that the collaboration highlights ASC’s dedication to safeguarding consumers, especially in industries where messaging demands increased sensitivity.
She said: “We stand with PAGCOR in our shared goal of protecting the Filipino people, especially in sectors like gambling where communication requires greater sensitivity and care.”
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