Unlicensed Operators Dominance
PlaySafe Alliance spokesperson Mike Defensor, head of World Platinum Technologies, warned that regulated operators controlled only 30% of the country's gambling market, leaving rogue platforms to allow underage access and evade tax.
"The real enemy in the online gambling issue is the illegal market. No license, no control. Minors can play, no taxes are paid, and regulations are ignored. Instead of being protected, the public is put at risk," he stated at the coalition's launch.
Planned Sector Reforms
PlaySafe Alliance will initially focus on reforms, including joint initiatives with PAGCOR to tighten advertising oversight and enhance age verification protocols. Anti-illegal gambling task forces, platform education on addiction risks, and addiction support networks are also on its list. Founding Chairman Eusebio Tanco of DigiPlus emphasized, "This alliance is not about competition—it's about collaboration," presenting the coalition as a united front to boost industry standards.
Actions planned early by the group include deploying AI-driven KYC systems and a 24/7 helpline, while working with PAGCOR to audit operator compliance. The group also plans to share operator data pools to root out unlicensed platforms. "By working as one, we can secure that online gambling in the Philippines will be more secure, transparent, and beneficial to both players and the nation," Tanco reiterated.
Leadership to be Determined
The alliance will form a special committee to oversee player safeguards, advert ethics, and financial risk mitigation after its leaders are elected later this month. An independent advisory board with global regulatory experts and public health advocates will guide the coalition's initiatives, including the launch of a 24/7 gambling helpline. The group remains open to new members as parliamentary debates on balancing the sector's revenue and consumer protection mandates persist.
