Gambling is entertainment that costs money
Honest information about gambling harm, support in the Philippines, and tools to stay in control.
National Problem Gambling Helpline
(02) 8248-956824 hours a day, 7 days a week · Confidential · Free
Get help nowOperated by PAGCOR in partnership with Seagulls Flock Organization Inc., staffed by trained counsellors who provide immediate support, guidance, and referrals to counselling, treatment, and rehabilitation.
This helpline is for family members too — not only for the person gambling. If someone you love is struggling, you can call.
Signs it has stopped being entertainment
Gambling harm can take many forms. One sign is worth paying attention to. Several is worth calling about.
If you're reading this list and recognising yourself, that recognition is the hard part and you've already done it. The call is easier than it looks: (02) 8248-9568.
Cons
- Chasing losses — betting more to win back what you've lost
- Borrowing money to keep playing, or gambling money meant for something else
- Hiding gambling from family or lying about how much you've played
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities
- Feeling unable to stop despite the consequences
- Gambling to escape stress, low mood, or anxiety
- Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut down
Practical controls
Before you deposit, set an amount you would be completely fine losing — not "would rather not lose", but fine losing. Set a time limit for the session, and decide in advance that when the limit is reached, you stop. No topping up. No "bawi."
Deposit limits
Set daily, weekly, and monthly caps so you can never spend beyond what you've decided in advance.
Session time limits
Reality-check reminders nudge you when your session reaches a preset duration.
Loss limits
Stop the session automatically once you hit a loss threshold — no willpower required.
Cooling-off periods
Take a short break from gambling — days or weeks — without committing to full self-exclusion.
Self-exclusion
Block yourself from a platform entirely. Tools work best when set while calm, not mid-session.
Mindful habits
Never gamble to escape stress or boredom, never while drinking, and never treat it as income.
Self-exclusion
PAGCOR operates a self-exclusion programme with periods of six months, one year, or five years.
The first six-month period is irrevocable once it begins — you cannot change your mind on a bad night. That's the point.
Family members can apply for exclusion on behalf of a spouse, child, or parent.
For families
If someone you care about is gambling harmfully, you don't have to solve it alone and you're not being disloyal by seeking advice. The National Problem Gambling Helpline supports family members directly.
You can also apply for self-exclusion on behalf of a spouse, child, or parent.
📞 (02) 8248-9568