(AsiaGameHub) – DigiPlus Interactive Corp has expressed its support for a comprehensive regulatory revamp of the Philippine online gaming industry as government legislators and Pagcor increase their supervision of the sector.
Good to Know
- DigiPlus stated it is participating in a technical working group that is crafting new laws.
- The firm anticipates more stringent regulations, rather than a complete prohibition of online gaming.
- DigiPlus also mentioned that prediction markets are in preliminary discussions with Pagcor.
DigiPlus Backs Tighter Rules as Philippines Gaming Debate Builds
Although some market speculation has centered on the possibility of the Philippines shutting down certain online gaming activities, DigiPlus anticipates an alternative result. President Andy Tsui confirmed that enhanced regulation is a primary focus, but he also stated the company is confident that an outright ban is not probable.
“We are involved in the working group and are actively contributing to those conversations,” Mr. Tsui remarked.
“We are very confident that a total ban will not occur, and instead, the sector will face stricter regulations,” he continued. “This will be beneficial for building a sustainable, long-term industry.”
DigiPlus endorsed a “new, all-encompassing regulatory framework” designed to elevate standards throughout the industry. The company reported that the technical group’s efforts are concentrated on bolstering consumer safeguards, imposing stricter controls on payment channels, and increasing restrictions on marketing.
Chairman Eusebio Tanco described the initiative as a method to maintain licensed operators in the market while simultaneously elevating compliance benchmarks.
“As a licensed and prominent online gaming operator, we consistently welcome cooperation and active engagement in dialogues with the Philippine government to reach our mutual objective of improving industry standards.”
He further stated: “By strengthening a market that permits only those operators who follow the highest compliance standards, we guarantee that the advantages of our industry—from employment generation to crucial tax income—are maintained for the benefit of the Filipino people.”
DigiPlus currently operates multiple gaming brands in the Philippines, such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone. Concurrently, the company highlighted its implementation of player protection measures, including a surety bond program and expanded over-the-counter payment choices via Bayad and Pay&Go.
Prediction markets represent another topic being explored. Mr. Tsui mentioned that DigiPlus has initiated preliminary talks with Pagcor concerning this segment, although the work is in its nascent stages.
“We are still in the testing phase… but this type of offering has not yet been launched in the Philippines,” the DigiPlus president observed.
He added: “We aspire for it to become an additional service we can introduce in the future.”
Legal uncertainties persist regarding this product category. A legal analysis by attorney Marie Antonette Quiogue indicated that Philippine law classifies wagering on outcomes that involve any element of chance as gambling, which implies that any local launch would require official legal approval and a license from Pagcor.
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