PlaySafe Alliance Unites Legal Online Gambling Operators
PlaySafe Alliance Unites Legal Online Gambling Operators
A United Front for Responsible Gaming
In a bold move that could reshape the future of online gambling in the Philippines, 19 PAGCOR-licensed operators have come together to form the PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines.
Launched on August 7, 2025, at Ascott BGC, this new industry association aims to promote responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, and consumer protection, while taking a firm stand against illegal gambling.
With the country’s online gambling sector under review, the timing couldn’t be more strategic. Lawmakers, regulators, and operators are now in deep discussions about how to balance public welfare with economic growth—and PlaySafe wants to be part of that conversation.
Who’s Behind the Alliance
The Interim Council includes some of the biggest names in the regulated space:
- DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, GameZone)
- World Platinum Technologies Inc. (KingPH, LuckyPH, QueenPH)
- Trojans Well Entertainment Corp. (Bet88)
- Gavin Ventures Inc. (OKBet)
- Playmate Leisure Solutions Corp. (PlayTime)
- Stotsenberg Leisure Park & Hotel Corp. (Casino Plus, Perya Plus)
- Jade Entertainment and Gaming Technologies Inc. (Jade Sportsbet)
- Meta Interactive Software Solutions Inc. (123Go)
- Enigma Software Solutions Inc. (Patokbet)
And that’s just the starting lineup. More operators have signed on, with others expected to follow.
The Real Enemy: Illegal Gambling
According to Mike Defensor, spokesperson for the alliance and President of World Platinum Technologies Inc., the biggest threat isn’t competition—it’s the illegal market.
“Ang tunay na kalaban sa usapin ng online gambling ay ang ilegal na market,” Defensor said. “Walang lisensya, walang kontrol—puwedeng maglaro ang menor de edad, walang bayad na buwis, at hindi sumusunod sa mga patakaran.”
He estimates that 70% of the current market is illegal, with only 30% operating under proper regulation. That’s a massive gap—and one the alliance aims to close.
What PlaySafe Plans to Do
The alliance isn’t just a PR move. It has a clear mandate and actionable goals:
- Partnering with PAGCOR to improve oversight and marketing standards
- Strengthening responsible gaming tools like KYC, age verification, and self-exclusion
- Launching anti-illegal gambling initiatives to protect consumers
- Educating the public about the risks of unregulated platforms
- Funding REPT programs (Research, Education, Prevention, Treatment) including a 24/7 National Gambling Helpline
This isn’t just about protecting players—it’s about building a safer, smarter industry.
Collaboration Over Competition
“This alliance is not about competition—it’s about collaboration,” said Eusebio Tanco, Chairman of DigiPlus Interactive Corp.
By working together, these operators hope to create a more secure, transparent, and beneficial online gambling ecosystem.
The group will soon elect officers and form Strategic Committees focused on:
- Player Protection
- Advertising & Marketing Governance
- Financial Risk Control
- Combatting Illegal Gambling
They also plan to onboard an independent advisory panel of experts in public health, fintech, and consumer advocacy.
Who Else Is In
Additional members who signed on during the launch include:
- Arden Consult
- GoTech Entertainment Inc. (Filbet)
- IGO Digital High Technology Inc. (iGO, PremyoFun)
- NEMO Interactive Group Corporation (Fairplay, Arionplay)
- Nextstage Entertainment Inc. (ANIBET)
- RAC Phil Corp. (LakiWin)
- Silver Goose 8 International Inc. (SG8)
- Skyline Nexus Corporation (Juan365)
- Webzoid System Solutions Corporation (Go Play Asia)
- Xn Solutions Inc. (MegaPerya)
Interested operators can still apply to join via the Interim Council.
