PESOMAX: Responsible Gaming and PAGCOR Self-Exclusion

Responsible gaming, as PAGCOR defines it, is treating play as entertainment with a fixed cost, not as a way to make money. This page sets out PAGCOR’s own tips, the signs of problem gambling, and the two exclusion programs available if play stops feeling like entertainment — for yourself or for someone you know.

PAGCOR’s tips for gambling responsibly

PAGCOR publishes six practical rules for anyone who chooses to gamble:

1. Gamble for entertainment purposes only.
2. Treat the money you lose as the cost of that entertainment.
3. Set a time and money limit, and stick to it.
4. Expect to lose.
5. Never borrow money to gamble.
6. Avoid “chasing” money already lost.

Gambling should never replace time with family, friends, work or other activities that matter to you.

Signs of problem gambling

PAGCOR lists these as warning signs worth taking seriously, in yourself or in someone close to you:

• Spending or betting more money than intended.
• Gambling for longer than planned.
• Repeatedly trying to win back losses.
• Increased debt, unpaid bills or other financial trouble because of gambling.
• Thinking about gambling constantly.
• Borrowing, stealing or selling belongings to keep playing.
• Strained family relationships because of gambling.
• Hopelessness, emotional distress or depression connected to gambling.

Self-exclusion: blocking your own access

PAGCOR’s self-exclusion program is for a player who feels a gambling problem developing. Periods run for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years, and the exclusion lifts automatically once the period ends. The first six months of any self-exclusion order cannot be revoked.

1. Complete the online application through PAGCOR’s Self-Exclusion Application Portal.
2. Upload an image of a government-issued ID.
3. Take a photograph (selfie) through the online application itself.

The exclusion applies across every site licensed and operated by PAGCOR, not just one brand.

Family exclusion: help for a loved one

Family exclusion is for a spouse, child or parent who wants a loved one blocked from PAGCOR-licensed gaming. Periods run for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years, lifting automatically at the end of the period. It requires a completed family exclusion application form, photo identification for both the respondent and the applicant, two recent 2x2 photos of the respondent, and either a birth certificate or a marriage certificate depending on the applicant’s relationship to the respondent. Applications go by email to ResponsibleGaming@pagcor.ph or by drop box at PAGCOR’s Pasay City office, together with the required documents.

Help centres and contacts

Who PAGCOR bars from playing

Beyond anyone choosing self-exclusion, PAGCOR bars government officials and employees connected to the operation of government agencies, AFP and PNP members, persons under 21, persons on the National Database of Restricted Persons, and Gaming Employment License holders. The casino age limit Philippines page covers this list in full, alongside the age rule itself.

Gambling is for 21 years old and above only, and it can be addictive — knowing when to stop is part of playing responsibly. Questions about how this site itself works are answered on the PESOMAX contact page.