ASC circular of October 2025: gambling ads must be screened and carry PAGCOR's tagline

Source: Ad Standards Council circular; we have not read the PAGCOR memo itself. Updated 31 October 2026.

What the circular says

ASC Circular 2025-010, dated 17 October 2025:

• Gambling advertising becomes the sixth must-screen category. All gambling ads, in all forms, for land-based or online operators must be screened with the ASC before implementation, effective immediately.
• It follows a memorandum of understanding between the ASC and PAGCOR signed on 16 July 2025.
• Advertisers first obtain PAGCOR's "AA" (Approval for Advertising), then apply for ASC clearance.
• A PAGCOR memorandum dated 28 July 2025 requires the revised tagline "Gambling can be addictive. Know when to stop." on out-of-home, print, TV and digital ads, clearly visible and readable (no stylised logos or altered colours; white background suggested).
• Until detailed guidelines are finalised, the gambling provisions of the 2024 Code of Ethics and Standards apply.

What viewers should expect

A legitimate, approved gambling ad shows the tagline and 21+ messaging. PAGCOR's Responsible Gaming Code also requires a 21+ prohibition logo and messages not directed at minors (Code). An ad with no warnings, "guaranteed win" claims, or a link from an influencer or chat group is a red flag (influencer promos, scam signs). In February 2026 PAGCOR said prime-time gambling ads on TV and radio were already prohibited (AGBrief).

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