GCash, Maya to comply with order to unlink apps from online gambling sites
E-wallet platforms GCash and Maya assured that they will comply with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' order to delink from online gambling platforms by this weekend.
In an advisory, GCash stated that it will begin to implement necessary changes within its app following BSP's memorandum mandating the suspension of in-app gaming access in mobile payment apps and websites in BSP Supervised Institutions.
With this, access to gaming via their GLife feature will be suspended after Saturday, Aug. 16, at 8 p.m.
While users can withdraw their funds from their gaming account back to their GCash wallet through GLife, once the suspension is implemented, those who have remaining funds can only access this directly through the gaming merchant's website.
"GCash supports adopting stronger safeguards on online gaming and will continue to work with regulators and industry partners to protect the financial health of Filipinos," the e-wallet stated.
Maya similarly issued an advisory highlighting how they fully support government efforts to "ensure a safe, responsible, and resilient financial system for all Filipinos."
The company will also disable access to gaming sites and apps through their Games feature by Aug. 16 at 8 p.m.
Until this time, customers may withdraw any remaining funds from linked gaming accounts back to their Maya Wallet via the Games feature.
After the deadline, customers may withdraw their funds directly through the gaming provider's website or app.
"We will always safeguard our customers and ensure uninterrupted availability of all our financial services. Maya will continue working closely with regulators and industry partners to uphold the highest standards of consumer protection and full compliance with all regulations," the company said.
BSP Deputy Governor Mamerto Tangonan on Thursday gave the order to unlink from online gambling platforms during a Senate Games and Amusement Committee hearing.
E-wallet platforms that will not comply with the order will face sanctions.
Tangonan assured the public that the central bank is committed to protecting consumers and ensuring that financial systems aren't being exploited in the name of online gambling.
This is just one of the efforts being done to restrict online gaming activities.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology, through its Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, previously ordered influencers to take down their posts promoting online gambling. It warned that those who don’t comply may face criminal charges like illegal gambling, tax evasion, and violation of the Data Privacy Act.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation also ordered the removal of gambling billboards and out-of-home advertisements by Aug. 15.
