Manila: Funds in gaming applications and sites that are linked to the Maya app can only be withdrawn and directly transferred to the Maya Wallet before 8 p.m. on Saturday. In a statement Friday, the digital payments provider said this move is in line with the directive of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to remove access to gaming sites, aimed 'to ensure a safe, responsible, and resilient financial system for all Filipinos.'

According to Philippines News Agency, until this time, customers may withdraw any remaining funds from linked gaming accounts back to their Maya Wallet via the Games feature. After the deadline, customers may withdraw their funds directly through the gaming provider's website or app, Maya said.

Maya assured the public that it 'will always safeguard our customers and ensure uninterrupted availability of all our financial services.' The company stated its commitment to continue working closely with regulators and industry partners to uphold the highest standards of consumer protection and full compliance with all regulations.

The changes are being made as Congress and the government join hands to address the ill effects of gambling, given the easy access to sites and applications partly through the mobile payment service providers. BSP Deputy Governor Mamerto Tangonan, during a Senate hearing on Thursday, said the central bank has directed electronic wallet providers to unlink their apps from online gaming platforms within 48 hours.