Responsible Gaming
1. Introduction
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, seek help immediately.
2. Age Verification
You must be at least 21 years old to gamble in Philippine casinos (PAGCOR-licensed venues) or the legal minimum age in your jurisdiction, which is 18+ in some countries. Underage gambling is illegal and can cause serious harm. Always verify your age and identity before playing.
3. Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
You may need help if you:
- Chase losses by returning to win back money
- Hide your gambling from family or friends
- Lie about how much time or money you spend gambling
- Gamble with money meant for bills, food, or essentials
- Borrow money or sell possessions to gamble
- Neglect work, studies, or relationships due to gambling
- Feel anxious, guilty, or irritable when not gambling
- Try to stop but cannot
- Gamble to escape stress, depression, or problems
4. Self-Help Tools
Use these responsible gaming tools offered by PAGCOR-licensed casinos and reputable online platforms:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly.
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you are willing to lose in a session.
- Reality Checks: Receive alerts showing how long you have been playing.
- Time-Outs: Take a cooling-off break from your account for a set period.
- Self-Exclusion: Block yourself from gambling for months or permanently.
- Account Closure: Close your gambling account entirely if needed.
5. Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help, contact a real, trusted support service:
- Philippines (PAGCOR): PAGCOR Responsible Gaming Program — visit www.pagcor.ph for self-exclusion and support information.
- UK: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- UK: GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — www.bzga.de
- Other countries: Use your national problem gambling helpline or visit www.gamblingtherapy.org for worldwide support.
6. Call to Action
If gambling is causing stress, debt, or harm to you or your loved ones, seek help now. You are not alone. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or contact one of the organizations above. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in many regions.