PeraPH Gambling Limits: Deposit, Time and Self-Exclusion

Gambling limits turn good intentions into numbers: how many pesos you can deposit, how long you can play, and how much you can lose before you stop. They work because they are fixed before play, when your judgment is clear. This page covers the three limits you can set yourself, the PAGCOR self-exclusion programme for when they are not enough, and the Philippine helplines.

Gambling limits you can set yourself

Use the same three on every platform and every product.

1. Deposit limit. Pick a weekly figure such as PHP 1,000 and load only that. If a platform offers a deposit control, set it to the same figure.
2. Loss limit. Decide the maximum you will lose in one session, for example PHP 300, and end the session when you reach it.
3. Time limit. PAGCOR advises setting time limits for each gambling session; use a phone alarm.

A worked example: with a PHP 1,000 weekly deposit cap and a PHP 300 session loss cap, the worst case in a week is the PHP 1,000, and it takes at least four sessions to reach it. Without caps, one bad evening could take the whole amount in minutes.

This site has no cashier, so it cannot set a limit for you; whether a platform offers them is for the platform’s own screens to show. PAGCOR’s responsible gaming rules also tell players never to borrow money for gambling and not to chase losses.

PAGCOR self-exclusion and help

PAGCOR runs two programmes. Self Exclusion/Banning lasts 6 months, 1 year or 5 years, and the first six months cannot be revoked; it lifts automatically at the end. Family Exclusion/Banning lets a spouse, child or parent request 6 months, 1 year or 3 years. Excluded persons are posted on the National Database of Restricted Persons, and exclusion applies across all sites licensed and operated by PAGCOR.

To apply you need a form, a photocopy of a government photo ID and two 2x2 colour photos taken in the last 6 months. Applications go by e-mail to [email protected] or to the drop box at MET Live Building, Pasay City, and a selfie or video call is needed if you do not file in person.

Signs that limits are no longer enough, per PAGCOR: betting more than you meant, playing longer than planned, chasing losses, missed bills and borrowing to gamble.

• National Problem Gambling Helpline: (02) 8248-9568, 24/7, [email protected]
• National Center for Mental Health: 1553, or 0917-899-8727

When a limit is hit, do something different from play. Log out, walk away from the device, and tell someone you trust. PAGCOR lists accredited help centres as well, including Gamblers Anonymous Philippines at 0915 938 2808 and Bridges of Hope at 0917 509 8826.

For habits that keep play small, see how to win casino sessions without chasing, the casino tips for beginners and the legal status of online gambling page. The more online casino tips hub lists the rest. Players must be 21 or older.