PAGCOR Launches 24/7 Helpline for Problem Gambling

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Company (PAGCOR) has launched a Nationwide Downside Playing Helpline (NPGH) to offer steady help for people affected by gambling-related points. The helpline, obtainable 24 hours a day at 02-8248-9568, straight connects callers with educated counselors who provide confidential help. This initiative is a part of PAGCOR’s broader dedication to accountable gaming and safeguarding participant welfare.

This system is applied in partnership with the Seagulls Flock Group Inc. (SFO), which brings experience in psychological well being, dependancy remedy, behavioral wellness, and counseling. In line with PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, the helpline is designed to help not solely these experiencing playing hurt but additionally their relations. He emphasised that whereas gaming generally is a type of leisure for a lot of, it will probably escalate into monetary difficulties, emotional stress, strained relationships, and social isolation for others.

“This Nationwide Downside Playing Helpline that we’re launching right this moment displays PAGCOR’s dedication to make sure that the gaming trade stays productive, well-governed, humane, and accountable,” Tengco said in a keynote speech learn by Senior Vice President for Land-Primarily based Operations Daniel Cecilio, as revealed on PAGCOR’s web site.

Skilled Coaching and Counseling Providers

The NPGH crew includes para-counselors and psychological well being professionals who’re educated to offer speedy help, psychological steering, and referrals to specialised remedy applications. The helpline operates on structured referral protocols to handle disaster conditions and supply long-term help. SFO Chairperson Teresita “Chit” Castillo highlighted the partnership as a bridge between regulatory oversight and evidence-based scientific interventions. She described the NPGH as the primary round the clock hotline within the Philippines devoted completely to gambling-related issues.

Earlier than the official launch, a commencement ceremony was held for the NPGH para-counselors, demonstrating the intensive coaching they underwent. Castillo defined that the advisors acquired instruction in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral remedy, scientific methods, technical name dealing with, and methods for managing irate or distressed callers. At current, 12 para-counselors work in three shifts, making certain the helpline operates across the clock, with plans to increase the crew as demand will increase.

A Secure and Compassionate Strategy

PAGCOR has framed the helpline as a mixture of regulatory duty and compassionate care. Tengco confused that efficient responses to downside playing ought to contain each strong governance and empathetic help. By connecting callers with educated psychological well being professionals, the helpline goals to offer sensible steering, triage companies, and structured interventions for these impacted by playing.

Along with the helpline, PAGCOR continues to supply help by its present applications and assets, making certain that gamers and their households have a number of avenues for help. The launch occasion was attended by officers from PAGCOR and SFO, together with Gaming Licensing and Improvement Division AVP Ma. Vina Claudette Oca, alongside employees and members of the regulatory and counseling groups.

By means of this initiative, PAGCOR reinforces its function as a regulator that prioritizes each participant safety and social duty, offering accessible {and professional} assist to anybody affected by playing hurt.