The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has made significant strides in combating illegal online gaming, having detected and blocked at least 74.78% of the 7,747 illegal online gaming sites identified in the country. This equates to 5,793 sites being successfully taken offline, according to Ret. Gen. Raul Villanueva, SVP of PAGCOR’s Security Monitoring Cluster.
PAGCOR Blocks Over 74% of Illegal Online Gaming Sites in the Philippines
Public Hearing on the Anti-Online Gambling Act
Villanueva presented these findings during a public hearing on the Anti-Online Gambling Act held by the Senate Committee. He emphasized PAGCOR’s extensive efforts not only in monitoring illegal online games but also in addressing other classifications of illegal activities. These include e-sabong (online cockfighting), Facebook ads promoting illegal gambling, mobile applications, offshore gambling sites, and spam messages.
Comprehensive Approach to Combat Illegal Activities
PAGCOR has implemented a multi-faceted approach to tackle these issues, which includes blocking websites and URLs associated with illegal activities, as well as payment blocking measures. Villanueva acknowledged the complexity of blocking payments, especially given the use of cryptocurrency by many criminals and the intricate nature of the offshore banking system.
“The payment blocking as of now based on my research, there are no studies yet on payment blocking because some of these criminals use cryptocurrency as a mode of payment. And the banking system is very complex, offshore banking is very complex. But we [have reached] out to payment portals like GCash and Maya, and we had a meeting two weeks ago with a representative of GCash; they promised us to purge these illegal sites,” explained Villanueva.
Collaboration with Technology and Payment Platforms
In addition to working with local payment portals like GCash and Maya, PAGCOR has also reached out to global technology giants such as Google Play and Apple Play Store. The aim is to shut down illegal sites and applications distributed through these platforms, further curbing the reach of illicit online gambling operations.
Moving Forward
PAGCOR’s proactive stance and collaborative efforts underscore the regulator’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Philippines’ gaming industry. By continuously monitoring and taking decisive action against illegal online gaming activities, PAGCOR aims to create a safer and more regulated online gaming environment for all Filipinos.
The successful detection and blocking of a significant number of illegal online gaming sites mark a notable achievement in the ongoing battle against illegal gambling in the Philippines. With continued vigilance and cooperation from various stakeholders, PAGCOR is poised to make further advancements in its regulatory and enforcement efforts.
FAQs About PAGCOR’s Efforts to Combat Illegal Online Gaming in the Philippines
1. How many illegal online gaming sites have been detected and blocked by PAGCOR?
PAGCOR has detected and blocked 5,793 out of 7,747 identified illegal online gaming sites in the Philippines, which is approximately 74.78%.
2. Who presented the findings about the blocked sites?
The findings were presented by Ret. Gen. Raul Villanueva, SVP of PAGCOR’s Security Monitoring Cluster, during a public hearing on the Anti-Online Gambling Act held by the Senate Committee.
3. What other classifications of illegal activities is PAGCOR monitoring?
PAGCOR is also monitoring other classifications of illegal activities such as e-sabong (online cockfighting), Facebook ads promoting illegal gambling, mobile applications, offshore gambling sites, and spam messages.
4. What measures has PAGCOR implemented to combat illegal online gaming?
PAGCOR has implemented measures such as blocking websites and URLs associated with illegal activities and implementing payment blocking measures.
5. What challenges has PAGCOR faced with payment blocking?
PAGCOR faces challenges with payment blocking due to the use of cryptocurrency by criminals and the complex nature of the offshore banking system.
6. What steps has PAGCOR taken regarding payment portals?
PAGCOR has reached out to local payment portals like GCash and Maya. They had a meeting with a representative of GCash, who promised to help purge these illegal sites.
7. Has PAGCOR reached out to global technology platforms?
Yes, PAGCOR has reached out to Google Play and Apple Play Store to help shut down illegal sites and applications distributed through these platforms.
8. What is the goal of PAGCOR’s efforts in blocking illegal online gaming sites?
PAGCOR’s goal is to create a safer and more regulated online gaming environment for all Filipinos by maintaining the integrity of the Philippines’ gaming industry.
9. What was the context of Ret. Gen. Raul Villanueva’s presentation?
His presentation took place during a public hearing on the Anti-Online Gambling Act held by the Senate Committee.
10. What signifies PAGCOR’s commitment to combating illegal online gaming?
PAGCOR’s proactive stance, collaborative efforts with local and global stakeholders, and the successful detection and blocking of a significant number of illegal online gaming sites underscore its commitment to maintaining a regulated and safe online gaming environment in the Philippines.
