DFNN Backs Online Gambling Reforms

​In response to recent media exposure regarding pending legislation affecting the Philippine gaming industry, DFNN, Inc., a publicly listed company on the PSE and the parent of licensed gaming technology provider IEST, Inc., wishes to provide its perspective.

In a PSE disclosure, DFNN acknowledge and respect the intent behind the bill recently filed by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, which proposes to further refine the regulatory environment for online gambling platforms in the Philippines. Some of its key provisions are increasing the minimum cash-in requirement to P10,000, instituting a P5,000 minimum top-up, and raising the minimum legal gambling age from 18 to 21. These proposed changes aim to enhance consumer protection and mitigate propagating problematic gambling habits, objectives which DFNN fully supports.

It is equally important, however, to consider the operational diversity across the holistic gaming ecosystem. In particular, the distinction between primarily digital platforms and the legacy land-based establishments from before the onset of the legal online framework. DFNN gaming network, composed of licensed, physical outlets nationwide, operates under close regulatory supervision and adheres to strict compliance standards, including but not limited to robust face-to-face KYC protocols, national ID-grade facial recognition, and enforcement of the minimum legal age of 21 as set by PAGCOR.

These community-based outlets provide secure, supervised environments for responsible gaming, and continue to generate meaningful economic benefits such as job creation, local business partnerships, and direct fiscal contributions to their host communities.

As regulatory reforms are considered, DFNN respectfully emphasize the importance of proportionality and precision in their application. Well-intended restrictions, if not carefully calibrated across distinct gaming formats, may unintentionally create incentives for certain segments of the population, particularly casual or lower-income players, to seek alternatives from unlicensed or offshore platforms. These grey market operations, which often exist beyond regulatory reach and with non-existent player safeguards, could undermine the very protections that the legislation seeks to reinforce.

DFNN believe there is a valuable opportunity to strike the right balance: one that strengthens accountability and social safeguards while preserving the viability of well-regulated, locally embedded operators that contribute positively to the national economy.

DFNN remains committed to working closely with our regulators, platform partners, and legislators to ensure that all evolving policies are implemented in a way that reinforces shared goals, promoting responsible gaming, safeguarding the public, and advancing inclusive economic development.