The golden rules
- Only gamble if you are 21 or older.
- Only use money left over after bills, food, rent and savings.
- Set a budget and a time limit before you start.
- Never chase losses. A loss is the price of the entertainment.
- Never borrow, sell belongings or use loan apps to gamble.
- Do not gamble when stressed, angry, lonely or drinking.
A simple peso budget method
| Step | Example |
|---|---|
| Monthly money left after essentials | ₱6,000 |
| Entertainment share you choose (e.g., 25%) | ₱1,500 |
| Split into sessions (e.g., 5) | ₱300 per session |
| Time limit per session | 30–45 minutes |
When a session’s money or time runs out, stop — even if you are “close” to a bonus. Read why in our slots guide and fishing guide.
Warning signs
- Spending more time or money than you planned, again and again.
- Hiding gambling from family or friends.
- Feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut down.
- Gambling to win back losses or to solve money problems.
- Missing work, school or family time because of gambling.
The World Health Organization notes that gambling harms can affect finances, relationships and mental health — not only the person who gambles.
Tools that help
- Deposit and session limits in your casino account settings, where offered.
- Cooling-off and self-exclusion options on the platform.
- PAGCOR’s exclusion programme for players and family members who want to restrict access.
- Phone screen-time limits on Android (Digital Wellbeing) and iPhone (Screen Time).
- Block payments to gambling sites with your bank where available.
Free, confidential help in the Philippines
You can also talk to your doctor, a counsellor, a trusted friend or your parish. International online support is available from organisations such as the National Council on Problem Gambling (US) and GambleAware (UK), which publish self-help tools.
Helping someone else
Talk calmly, without blame. Offer to help them set limits or reach support. Protect your own finances. You are not responsible for their choices, but your support matters.
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