The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has directed one of its licensees to withdraw its advertising sponsorship from an online TV program featuring scantily clad women, citing the need to uphold the integrity of the local gaming industry.
Atty. Jeremy Luglug, PAGCOR Assistant Vice President for the Electronic Gaming and Licensing Department, said he immediately contacted the licensee after the agency was alerted by an online podcast about the sponsorship deal involving a popular actor’s show.
“We will not tolerate any form of advertising support from our licensees for shows that are demeaning and overtly sexual in nature,” Luglug stated.
He clarified that the licensee has no ownership ties to the controversial program, contrary to what was claimed in the podcast. He also noted that the licensee is a Filipino, not a foreigner as alleged.
Addressing concerns raised about the potential impact of online gaming on minors, Luglug emphasized that only adults can access licensed gaming platforms and the e-wallets used for placing bets.
“Our licensees implement strict Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols to ensure only individuals aged 21 and above can participate,” he explained. “This standard is also followed by our partner e-wallet providers.”
However, Luglug acknowledged that underage individuals may still gain access to illegal, unlicensed gaming sites that fall outside PAGCOR’s regulatory scope.
“This is why we urge the public—especially parents—to monitor and prevent minors from accessing adult-only websites,” he said.
He also called on the public to support only PAGCOR-licensed operators, stressing that doing so helps protect the credibility of the Philippine gaming industry.
