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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Betting on recovery: Pagcor launches 24/7 helpline for people with gambling problem

Betting on recovery: Pagcor launches 24/7 helpline for people with gambling problem

Published May 27, 2026 10:01 pm

At A Glance

  • The National Problem Gambling Helpline (NPGH) can be reached through (02) 8248-9568 and Pagcor said it offers confidential counseling and crisis support for individuals experiencing gambling-related problems, including affected family members.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline office, located within Pagcor's Corporate Office in Pasay City, is now ready to respond to calls from individuals struggling with gambling problem. (Photo: Pagcor)
The National Problem Gambling Helpline office, located within Pagcor's Corporate Office in Pasay City, is now ready to respond to calls from individuals struggling with gambling problem. (Photo: Pagcor)
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) on Tuesday, May 26, launched a round-the-clock helpline for Filipinos struggling with gambling addiction to address the growing social cost of gaming as gambling platforms become more accessible nationwide.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline (NPGH) can be reached through (02) 8248-9568 and Pagcor said it offers confidential counseling and crisis support for individuals experiencing gambling-related problems, including affected family members.
PAGCOR partnered with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc. (SFO), a group involved in mental health services, addiction treatment, and behavioral wellness programs, in the realization of the project.
Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the hotline reflects the agency’s effort to balance gaming revenues with public welfare.
“This National Problem Gambling Helpline that we are launching today reflects PAGCOR’s commitment to ensure that the gaming industry remains productive, well-governed, humane, and accountable,” Tengco said in a keynote speech delivered by Senior Vice President for Land-Based Operations Daniel Cecilio during the launch.
According to Pagcor, gambling activities continue to expand in the country through casinos, electronic gaming sites, and online betting applications.
Mental health advocates have long warned that easier access to gambling has also increased the risk of addiction, debt problems, and family conflict.
“PAGCOR is aware that for many, gaming is just a form of leisure and recreation,” Tengco said. “But for some, what may start as entertainment can gradually lead to financial strain and ruin, emotional distress, damaged relationships, and isolation.”
He added that addressing gambling addiction requires more than regulation alone.
That’s why under the program, trained para-counselors and mental health professionals will provide immediate psychological support and referrals for treatment and rehabilitation. The hotline will also handle crisis intervention and long-term case monitoring through referral protocols.
Tengco said SFO was chosen because of its experience in counseling and behavioral intervention.
“Through the dedication of their psychologists, counselors, social workers, researchers, and advocates, they have helped many individuals rebuild their lives," he said.
Round-the-clock service
SFO chairperson Teresita Castillo said the hotline is the first 24/7 service in the country dedicated solely to gambling-related harm.
“We are very grateful for the partnership with PAGCOR, hindi naman namin talaga inaasahan ‘yun but I guess it’s a blessing also because parang nagbi-bridge from the regulatory and the clinical evidence-based interventions like counseling and then of course referrals to treatment in rehabilitation centers so those who are affected by gambling harm can get the right help that they need,” Castillo said.
Before the launch, PAGCOR and SFO held a graduation ceremony for para-counselors who completed training in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and call handling.
“We decided to come up with a commencement exercise kasi medyo mahaba rin ‘yung naging training nila. They had several programs on motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mga clinical skills na at the same time for technical… how to handle the calls, how to deal with irate callers,” Castillo said.
At present, the hotline has 12 para-counselors working in three shifts daily. Castillo said they hope to expand the team as demand for intervention services increases.
The launch was attended by Gaming Licensing and Development Department Assistant Vice President Ma. Vina Claudette Oca, PAGCOR officials, SFO employees, and gaming licensees.

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