GCash, Maya to comply with BSP order to remove online gambling in-app links

MANILA, Philippines — Two digital payment applications said in separate statements that they will "fully comply" with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' (BSP) order to take down the icons and links within their applications that redirect to online gambling platforms. 

"GCash will fully comply with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' (BSP) proactive directive to remove links and icons that connect payment apps to online gambling platforms," GCash said on Thursday, August 14. 

The e-wallet app stressed that it shares the BSP's commitment to ensure Filipinos use its financial services responsibly. GCash said it will "immediately enforce" the changes once it receives the central bank's official directive.

Maya also assured that it would follow the order as part of its commitment to keep accounts and transactions secure and fully operational.

"We remain focused on serving our customers while fully complying with regulatory requirements," the mobile wallet and bank said.  

First announced at the Senate hearing on online gambling, the BSP issued a directive to all BSP-supervised institutions — which include digital wallets — "to remove links providing in-app gambling access" from their applications and websites within 48 hours.

"Suspended in-app gambling access includes any product/service/feature that redirects an account holder to a gaming/gambling site," the central bank said in a statement. 

"The BSP directive is issued in light of the surge in online gambling transactions and its impact on the financial health of consumers and their families, and considering the broader social cost. The suspension will remain in place until the BSP finalizes the policy on online gambling payment services," it added. 

By linking to online gambling platforms and carrying gambling ads, e-wallet apps have made betting more accessible to Filipinos, even in small amounts. 

Both the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) are considering stricter regulations, but several lawmakers are calling for a total ban.

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