Pasay city: The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Ad Standards Council (ASC) have taken a significant step towards regulating gambling-related advertisements by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday. This agreement aims to oversee and pre-screen gambling ads across all media platforms as part of a broader effort to ensure responsible advertising within the gaming industry.
According to Philippines News Agency, the MOU was signed by PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer Alejandro Tengco and ASC Chairperson Golda Roldan at the PAGCOR Corporate Office. The collaboration marks a formal commitment to classify gambling advertisements under ASC's "must-screen" categories. This category already includes advertisements for alcoholic beverages, over-the-counter medicines, food supplements, promotional transport fares, and breast milk substitutes.
PAGCOR chairman Tengco highlighted the progression of the initiative, noting that nearly a year ago, discussions began regarding this collaborative effort. The formal signing of the agreement now allows for the immediate execution of commitments outlined in the MOU. The agreement mandates that all branded or corporate gambling advertisements on television, radio, online, and outdoor platforms must undergo ASC review and approval before public release. This process is intended to prevent misleading content and safeguard vulnerable groups from potential harm.
ASC Chairperson Roldan emphasized the council's dedication to consumer protection, particularly in industries requiring heightened sensitivity in messaging. The collaboration with PAGCOR underlines a shared goal of protecting the Filipino public, especially in areas like gambling where communication demands greater care.
In related developments, PAGCOR recently issued a directive for the immediate removal of all gambling-related billboards and out-of-home advertisements, including those on public transportation systems such as buses, jeepneys, taxis, and trains. PAGCOR licensees and stakeholders were given a deadline of August 15 to ensure the complete removal of such advertisements from outdoor spaces.
