By Brian Sombero
Pagcor is rolling out stricter rules for online gambling, tightening know your customer checks, reining in ads, and expanding responsible gaming safeguards as the Senate scrutinizes the industry’s social and financial risks.
Pagcor Electronic Gaming Licensing Department officer in charge Jessa Mariz Fernandez said the regulator has closed loopholes that previously allowed players to access platforms before identity checks were completed. Under the updated process, users must submit initial KYC requirements before they can deposit, including their name, contact details, a valid government issued ID, and a real time selfie with the ID, which Pagcor says will help curb the use of borrowed or fake identities. On advertising, Pagcor said it is finalizing implementing rules with the Ad Standards Council to cover promotions across social media and other digital platforms, while illegal ads are being monitored and reported for blocking to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center and the National Telecommunications Commission.
Pagcor also said it is strengthening its Responsible Gaming Practice in the first quarter of 2026, including localized translations of the line “Gambling is addictive, know when to stop,” plus tools
like online self exclusion, accreditation of treatment and rehabilitation centers, stricter KYC enforcement, and the removal of gambling related billboards and other outdoor ads. The regulator added it is preparing a 24-7 helpline for confidential counseling and support for problem gamblers and their families, and developing a guarantee application with a government bank to help consumers transact only with licensed platforms. Committee chair Senator Erwin Tulfo said the inquiry is in aid of legislation, citing concerns over weak enforcement that could expose minors, enable identity misuse, and create vulnerabilities for money laundering.
Source: Philippine News Agency, February 11, 2026.