Gambling should be entertainment, the same as a night out or a movie. It’s never a way to make money, pay off debts or fix money problems. This page covers how to keep it fun, how to spot when it isn’t anymore, and where to get help in the Philippines.
Need help right now?
Call PAGCOR’s National Problem Gambling Helpline on 02-8248-9568. It’s free, confidential and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You’ll talk to a trained counsellor who can listen, give practical support, or point you to treatment if you need it. You can call for yourself or for someone you’re worried about.
Who can gamble in the Philippines
You must be 21 or older to gamble, online or in a casino. Licensed online casinos check your age and identity before you can deposit. Government officials and employees, and members of the armed forces and the police, are also barred from casino gaming.
How to keep gambling fun
A few simple habits make a big difference:
- Set a budget before you start, and only use money you can afford to lose. When it’s gone, stop for the day.
- Set a time limit, too. It’s easy to lose track of time on a phone.
- Use the casino’s own tools. Many licensed sites let you set deposit limits or take a break from your account.
- Never chase losses. Trying to win back what you’ve lost is how small losses turn into big ones.
- Don’t gamble when you’re upset, stressed or drinking. That’s when it’s hardest to stop.
- Keep it separate from bills. Never use money meant for rent, food, school fees or loans.
Warning signs to watch for
It may be time to step back if you notice any of these in yourself or someone close to you:
- Spending more money or time than planned, again and again
- Borrowing money, selling things or using savings to gamble
- Hiding gambling from family or lying about how much you spend
- Feeling restless, anxious or irritable when you can’t play
- Gambling to escape problems or to feel better
- Missing work, school or family time because of gambling
One or two of these on a bad day doesn’t mean you have a problem. But if they keep happening, please talk to someone.
Self-exclusion and family exclusion
PAGCOR runs an exclusion programme that lets you block yourself from gaming at PAGCOR-regulated casinos.
- Self-exclusion: you apply yourself, for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. A 6-month exclusion can’t be cancelled early.
- Family exclusion: a spouse, parent or adult child can ask for a family member to be excluded, for the same periods.
You can apply through any PAGCOR-regulated casino or through PAGCOR directly. [CHECK: current steps and forms for online gaming accounts on pagcor.ph before publishing.] PAGCOR is also working on online self-exclusion tools for gaming websites.
Helping someone else
If you’re worried about a family member or friend, try to talk when you’re both calm, focus on what you’ve noticed rather than blame, and don’t lend them money to cover losses. The helpline above also supports family members, so you don’t have to handle it alone.
Our part
We only list PAGCOR-licensed casinos, because licensed sites have to verify players’ ages and follow responsible gaming rules. Every page on our site reminds readers that gambling is for adults 21 and over. If you ever think something on our site encourages harmful gambling, please tell us.