The winning hand: Balancing economic gain with responsible gaming

Malacañang announced an ongoing crackdown on illegal online gambling operations during a press briefing last week, responding to growing concerns over the surge in internet-based betting platforms. Presidential spokesperson Claire Castro underscored the serious social consequences tied to this, emphasizing that its accessibility heightens the risk of addiction and exploitation.

In today’s digital age, online gambling has become more accessible than ever for Filipinos. With games available at one’s fingertips, it has become easier for more people to participate since they can do so with just a few clicks on their phone. This has drawn in a broad spectrum of players, some of whom may not have gambled otherwise.

There is a certain thrill that comes with gambling – an excitement that many Filipinos have come to associate with relaxation and leisure. For some, it is a casual diversion after a long day; for others, it is part of how they unwind. It is familiar. It is fun. It is entertainment.

But as online gaming continues to gain popularity, it is important to study how it is influencing behavior, to ensure that the country can strike a balance between economic benefits and promoting responsible gaming.

The numbers speak volumes. In 2024, electronic games and e-bingo generated a jaw-dropping P154.51 billion in gross gaming revenues, according to the Philippine Amusement and G+aming Corp. (Pagcor). This is a remarkable 165 percent increase from the P58.16 billion they made just the year before.

And it is not slowing down. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, e-games and e-bingo already made up more than half of Pagcor’s P25.52 billion revenues, outpacing even the country’s traditional licensed casinos.

The numbers pose promising gains for the country’s economy, but this should not be at the cost of the well-being of Filipinos.

With the rise of online gaming, there is a need to strike a balance between pushing for its economic gains and ensuring Filipinos are protected and are gaming responsibly. Gambling, like every other form of leisure, should be done in moderation. Online gaming by itself is not the problem, problems arise when boundaries blur and perception changes – from a form of recreation to a means of solving financial woes.

This is the reason why Filipinos need to have a deeper understanding of the concept of responsible gaming. When gambling becomes more than just fun, it can lead to serious consequences.

At last week’s Palace briefing, the government revealed that the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in coordination with Pagcor, has dismantled over 7,000 illegal online gaming sites. Yet challenges persist, with these platforms reemerging under new domains. While a blanket ban on games like Scatter isn’t feasible due to their Pagcor accreditation, authorities assured the public that licensed gaming platforms are strictly regulated.

But regulation alone is not enough. Responsible gaming must be a shared responsibility – from government agencies and platform providers to every individual behind a screen. From top to bottom, responsible gaming should be part of the conversation. Understanding personal limits, setting budgets, and recognizing when to take a break are essential. Awareness of red flags – such as the feeling of being unable to stop – can help individuals act before the problem worsens. Awareness is the first line of defense.

While Pagcor acknowledges this and is continuously strengthening its efforts to promote responsible gaming, the agency should not and cannot do this alone. Beyond the Responsible Gaming Code of Practice and strict age verification processes enforced by Pagcor – both the public and private sectors should and can do more for the industry and its consumers.

The long-term success and sustainability of the industry requires multi-faceted action: smarter and stronger regulation, a robust information and education campaign on responsible gaming, and private industry collaboration and support. All of these are essential to ensure that the industry grows sustainably while also safeguarding the well-being of its consumers.

The growth of the gaming industry in the Philippines presents both opportunities and responsibilities. If managed wisely, gambling can remain a legitimate and enjoyable form of entertainment. But as technology continues to transform how we play, our safeguards must evolve accordingly.

Celebrating innovation and economic progress is important. But just as vital is the reminder that knowing when to pause, when to walk away, or when to seek help – that’s the real win.

If you or someone you know may need support, Pagcor’s partner help centers are available. Life Change Recovery Center and Bridges of Hope Drugs and Alcohol Rehabilitation Center can be reached at (02) 415-7964 and (02) 622-0193.

And if someone can no longer stop on their own, loved ones can be the lifeline. Support, intervention and empathy can stop a problem from becoming a crisis. Because when the game takes over, it’s not just play money at stake- it’s people’s lives and livelihoods.

Now is the time to act. Let’s build a culture where we can chase progress without folding on responsibility. In this high-stakes space, responsible gaming is the winning hand.