The Central Bank of the Philippines issued a memorandum instructing all BSP-supervised institutions (BSIs) to suspend in-app gambling access from their mobile payment apps and websites, pending a forthcoming policy that will set standards and expectations for BSIs offering online gambling payment services. The suspension was approved by the Monetary Board in Resolution No. 805 amid a surge in online gambling transactions and heightened public concern about the financial health impact on consumers. BSIs must remove links that provide in-app gambling access within 48 hours of the memorandum’s issuance, with “in-app gambling access” defined to include any product or service that redirects an account holder to a gaming or gambling site. The restriction remains in place until the relevant BSP policy is issued and implemented.
Central Bank of the Philippines 2025-08-14
Central Bank of the Philippines orders BSP-supervised institutions to remove in-app gambling access from payment apps within 48 hours
The Central Bank of the Philippines has mandated all BSP-supervised institutions to suspend in-app gambling access from their mobile payment apps and websites. This decision, approved by the Monetary Board, addresses rising online gambling transactions and public concerns about consumer financial health. The suspension will remain until a new policy setting standards for online gambling payment services is implemented.