TLDR
- PAGCOR launched a 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline at (02) 8248-9568 for gamblers and their families
- The helpline is run in partnership with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc., an NGO specializing in addiction support
- 12 para-counselors currently staff the line across three daily shifts, with plans to expand
- Online gambling generates over P100 billion annually for the Philippine government and employs around 32,000 people directly
- The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines has called online gambling a “moral and social crisis” and pushed for a ban
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has launched a round-the-clock helpline to address growing concerns about gambling addiction in the country. The National Problem Gambling Helpline is now live and available to callers at any hour of the day.
The hotline number is (02) 8248-9568. It connects callers with trained counselors who can offer guidance and support.
PAGCOR Partners With Addiction Support NGO
PAGCOR set up the helpline in collaboration with the Seagulls Flock Organization Inc., a non-governmental organization focused on helping people with substance abuse and problem gambling. The group brings psychologists, counselors, social workers, and researchers to the effort.
PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco said the initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to responsible and humane gaming. He acknowledged that while some people enjoy gaming without issues, others face financial, emotional, and social harm.
Tengco praised the Seagulls Flock Organization for offering both expertise and compassion. He said the group has helped many people recover from addiction and rebuild their lives.
SFO Chairperson Teresita “Chit” Castillo said the helpline will provide guidance, triage, and long-term support. She said proper referral protocols will be followed for crisis situations.
Castillo added that the partnership bridges regulatory oversight with clinical, evidence-based care. That includes counseling sessions and referrals to treatment and rehabilitation centers.
The helpline currently has 12 para-counselors working in three shifts to provide coverage around the clock. Castillo said she hopes to bring on more para-counselors in the near future.
The service is not limited to gamblers themselves. Family members affected by a loved one’s gambling habits can also call for help.
Rising Pressure Over Online Gambling in the Philippines
The launch comes as gambling addiction draws increasing attention in the Philippines. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has previously acknowledged the issue as something the government was monitoring.
However, Marcos has not provided updates on a planned stakeholders’ meeting meant to develop a comprehensive online gambling policy. He has also stopped short of supporting an outright ban, despite calls from several groups.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines has been one of the most vocal critics. The group has described online gambling as a moral and social crisis. Church leaders warned it is destroying individuals, families, and communities.
Tengco pushed back against calls for a total ban by pointing to the economic contributions of the industry. He said online gambling brings in more than P100 billion per year for the government.
The sector also provides direct employment for roughly 32,000 workers. Thousands more hold jobs in related businesses.
Tengco placed blame for many of the problems on illegal online gambling operators. He said these unregulated platforms allow minors to place bets and develop addictions.
The debate over how to regulate online gambling in the Philippines remains unresolved. For now, PAGCOR says the helpline is one step toward addressing the human cost of the industry. The 12 para-counselors staffing the line are currently handling calls across all three daily shifts, with expansion planned.
