The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation plans to launch a mobile application by December to help players verify whether online gambling platforms are licensed.
This tool is intended to help consumers avoid illegal operators by providing a direct way to check PAGCOR authorisation. The project forms part of the regulator’s widescale campaign against illegal gambling and its efforts to improve player protection.
PAGCOR App Will Give Players A Direct Way To Check Operator Licences
“This platform will give players a reliable way to verify which online gaming platforms are licensed by PAGCOR. We want the public to make informed choices and avoid falling prey to illegal operators,” PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco said.
The app would provide a player-facing verification service, allowing users to check an operator before depositing money or using its gambling products.
This initiative comes as online gambling becomes increasingly accessible through mobile devices, digital payments and social media. It is also aimed at younger audiences, who make up a significant share of the Philippines’ online gambling users.
Development Bank Data Centre To Build And Operate The Platform
PAGCOR’s board approved the development and implementation of the app on 8 October, including a proposed partnership with Development Bank of the Philippines Data Center.
Under the proposed arrangement, the data centre would develop, host, operate and maintain the platform and provide technical support at no cost to PAGCOR. The agreement would run for five years and could be renewed by mutual written agreement. However, the arrangement remains subject to applicable laws and regulations.
Six-Month Assessment Will Test Security And Technical Feasibility
Before full implementation, the data centre must submit a proof of concept for the app’s minimum viable product.
PAGCOR will conduct a six-month assessment covering the proposed features, system architecture, security controls and overall feasibility. The regulator may terminate the arrangement if identified deficiencies are not addressed within a reasonable period.
The project must comply with the Philippines’ Data Privacy Act of 2012 and relevant cybersecurity and information-security requirements. Data-sharing provisions will be included in the agreement or covered by a separate arrangement.
PAGCOR Coordinates With Government Agencies Against Illegal Operators
PAGCOR is coordinating with the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the National Telecommunications Commission and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center.
The agencies are working to strengthen action against illegal online gambling operators, while the proposed app would give players a practical way to identify authorised platforms.
PAGCOR is also promoting its National Problem Gambling Helpline. The round-the-clock service offers confidential support, counselling and treatment referrals for people and families affected by gambling-related harm.
Blask data reported by SiGMA found that players aged 25 to 34 represented 35% of the Philippine player base, while those aged 18 to 24 accounted for another 20%.
A public verification app could improve consumer awareness and make PAGCOR’s licensing system easier to use. Its success will depend on accurate operator data, strong cybersecurity and rapid updates when licences change or illegal sites appear. The app should complement enforcement actions against unauthorised operators and wider responsible-gambling support.
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