IRG for the Accreditation of Problem Gambling Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers
PAGCOR
Gaming Licensing and Development Licensing and Regulatory Group
Department
IMPLEMENTING RULES
AND GUIDELINES FOR
THEACCREDITATION OF
PROBLEM GAMBLING
TREATMENT AND
REHABILITATION
CENTERS
Revision No.: 0 Effectivity: AUG 0 7 2025
PAGCOR EXECUTIVE SUMMARY THE ACCREDITATION OF PROBLEM GAMBLING Gaming Licensing and Development Department IMPLEMENTING RULES AND GUIDELINES FOR TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTERS Page No. Rev. No. Effectivity Page 1 of 13 AU6 1 2025 0 4o
The primary objective of these accreditation guidelines is to ensure that problem gambling treatment and rehabilitation centers operate with integrity, accountability and
efficacy. It provides a structured framework for evaluating the qualifications, services
and operational procedures of rehabilitation centers seeking official recognition from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Accreditation serves
as a benchmark of quality standards, and promotes a continuous improvement in the
delivery of rehabilitation services
It outlines comprehensive accreditation guidelines aimed at establishing consistent, high-quality standards of care and support for individuals affected by gambling addiction. As gambling-related harm becomes an increasing public health concern, there is a critical need for specialized treatment facilities that adhere to professional. ethical and evidence-based practices
PAGCOR THE ACCREDITATION OF PROBLEM GAMBLING Gaming Licensing and Development Department IMPLEMENTING RULES AND GUIDELINES FOR TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTERS EffectivityAUG 0 7 2025 Page No. Rev. No. Page 2 of 13 0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEFINITION OF TERMS 3 GENERAL RULE AND SCOPE 4
SECTION 01:GUIDELINES 4
SECTION 02:REQUIREMENTS 5 SECTION 03: REVIEW AND EVALUATION 6
SECTION O4: ACCREDITATION AND RENEWAL 6 SECTION 05: REVOCATION 1 ANNEXES
ANNEX A: MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT 8 ANNEX B:ACCREDITATION CERTIFICATE 12
ANNEX C: MONITORING CHECKLIST 13
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DEFINITION OF TERMS
Accreditation A formal recognition by PAGCOR that a rehabilitation center complies with
established standards and is authorized to receive referrals and/or funding
support Addiction
The fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance,thing or activity. Aftercare Long term management recovery management of clients within the network of
community-based recovery support services
Gambling/Problem Gambling Disorder Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically
significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four
(or more) of the nine diagnostic criteria in a 12-month period Prevention Strategies Are proactive measures taken to reduce the likelihood or impact of a negative
outcome before it occurs Recovery
A process of change whereby individuals work to improve their own health
and wellness and to live a meaningful life in a community of their choice while
striving to achieve their full potential. Recovery Support2 Refers to the process of assisting individuals in their journey to improve their
health and well-being, live a self-directed life, and reach their full potential,
especially after experiencing mental health challenges. Rehabilitation The action of restoring someone to health or normal life through training and
therapy after addiction Responsible Gaming Program A PAGCOR program aimed at minimizing the adverse consequences of gambling by promoting awareness programs and access to help
1 https://sbnsoftware.com/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-corrective-actions-and-preventive-actions 2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK590044/
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GENERAL RULE AND SCOPE
These guidelines apply to all public, private, and non-government treatment and rehabilitation centers seeking accreditation from PAGCOR as qualified providers of
treatment intervention and recovery programs that offer in-patient services for
individuals affected by problem gambling
A Treatment and Rehabilitation Center licensed to operate by the Department of Health (DOH) must have a prior accreditation from PAGCOR, through the Gaming Licensing and Development Department (GLDD), before doing business or conduct gambling-related interventions with any PAGCOR licensed and operated gaming establishment in the Philippines
Accredited Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers are subject to regular inspections by
PAGCOR for compliance with standards subject to applicable Philippine laws, rules,
and regulations.
PAGCOR reserves the right to amend these guidelines in line with changes in related
policy or regulation
SECTION 1: GUIDELINES
The Treatment and Rehabilitation Center
1. Must be duly registered with the Department of Health (DOH) and licensed
under relevant laws and regulations (e.g., Republic Act No. 11036 -- Mental Health Act). 2. Must be a holder of a valid business permit to operate in accordance with local
government regulations. 3. Must have a functional organizational structure, including:
a. Licensed psychiatrist/s or clinical psychologist/s
b.Certified counselor/s or therapist/s
c. Medical and administrative staff 4. Must implement a client-centered, evidence-based treatment program,
including, but not limited to
a. Gambling screening and full assessment
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b. Individual and group counseling and treatment plans
c.Aftercare and Reintegration plans 5. Must have established monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess
rehabilitation outcome and effectiveness.
6. Must provide a quarterly report to PAGCOR showing monthly admissions
after-care services, success/recovery data and information, if any, and other related matters for the enhancement of PAGCOR's Responsible Gaming
programs.
SECTION 2: REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must submit the following documentary requirements to PAGCOR's Gaming Licensing and Development Department (GLDD):
1.Letter of Intent 2.Certified true copies of:
a. DOH Certificate of Accreditation
b.Business permit from the Local Government Unit (LGU)
C Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration
d. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registratior
e. Secretary Certificate (must recite specific resolutions or board actions
that authorized the particular transaction or designation)
This is to establish specific individual (Authorized Representative)
has the authority to act on behalf of the corporation, as authorized
by the Board of Directors/Trustees
f. Organizational structure with job descriptions of those specifically
handling problem gambling clients. g. Updated curriculum vitae of the center's gambling specialist and their
respective licenses from Professional Regulation Commission (PRC),
and credentials as gambling counselors
h.Data privacy policy i.Business profile (containing brief description of the rehabilitation center,
mission, vision, services and programs offered, fees, requirements for admission, procedure, directory of officers/key personnel, contact
information/website, etc.) 3. List of past and present affiliations or partnerships (if any)
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4. Complete addresses/es of facility/facilities, including contact information 5. Nearest accredited hospital/s for any medical emergencies
SECTION 3: REVIEW AND EVALUATION
1. Document Review
PAGCOR shall conduct a thorough evaluation of submitted documents 2. Site Inspection
PAGCOR or its designated team shall conduct an ocular inspection to verify the
following, among others:
-Cleanliness, safety, and security of the facility
Roster of Employees and Staff qualifications -List of key personnel (name, position, certification - if applicable)
must be provided to ensure that organization has a functional
structure
SECTION 4:ACCREDITATION AND RENEWAL
1. Based on the favorable result of the evaluation , GLDD shall recommend the
accreditation of the Rehabilitation Center to PAGCOR's Board of Directors for
approval. 2. Upon approval of PAGCOR's Board, PAGCOR shall execute a Memorandum of
Agreement with the Rehabilitation Center (Annex A). 3. PAGCOR shall issue an Accreditation Certificate (Annex B), valid for three (3)
years, subject to annual compliance reviews based on Section 1 of this IRG, and
monitoring visits (Annex C) 4. The head of GLDD shall sign the Accreditation Certificate
5. Accredited centers may be listed as official referral partners for PAGCOR's
Responsible Gaming Program. 6. Any changes in ownership, management, or operations must be reported within 30
days of effectivity 7. A renewal application must be filed at least 90 days before expiration, with updated
documentation (refer to section 2).
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SECTION 5: REVOCATION
Accreditation may be revoked instantaneously on the following grounds
1. Submission of false or misleading information 2. Non-compliance with PAGCOR or DOH regulations
3. Verified cases of client abuse,malpractice, or ethical violations
4. Refusal to allow conduct of inspection 5. Feedback or actions deemed detrimental to public interest or PAGCOR's
mandate
In case the Rehabilitation Center disputes PAGCOR's decision on the revocation of
its accreditation, the Rehabilitation Center shall submit a written explanation to PAGCOR on why their accreditation should not be cancelled. Only upon compliance and/or submission of pertinent documents under protest will PAGCOR commence the
processing of the reconsideration. Failure by the Rehabilitation Center to comply and/or submit the pertinent documents will be considered as acceptance of
revocation of its accreditation.
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ANNEX A
MEMORANDUM OFAGREEMENT
This Memorandum of Agreement made and executed between
Avenue corner EDSA Extension, Pasay City.represented herein by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,ALEJANDRO H.TENGCO,Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,hereinafter referred to as PAGCOR. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, a government-owned and controlled corporation created and existing by virtue of Presidential Decree No.1869 as amended,with office/business address at PAGCOR Met Live Building.Macapagal
and
at Iaws Certificate dated f the Republic Of a corporation duly organized and existing under the duly authorized for this purpose, as per Secretary's hereto attached as AnnexAherein referred to as the Philippines, represented in this act by its with office address
Witnesseth.
1. That the parties hereby bind thermselves to undertake a Memorandum of Agreement for the purpose of supporting PAGCOR'S Responsible Gaming Program in its licensed and operated-casinos, under the following terms and conditions
a brochures and flyers, among others, and significant updates about the facility and its services; shall provide PAGCOR with informational materials such as
b. PAGCOR shall include details in its Responsible Gaming Program and in certain collaterals for its programs and services, and contact
the promotion of the same:
C. PAGCOR shall orient its employees about services and contact details .its mission.programs
d. PAGCOR employees assigned to carry out its Responsible Gaming Program shall refer customers who inquire about life coaching.
counseling, psychological, alternative wellness services and treatment facilities for individuals and families with gambling addiction problems to
e.PAGCOR shall ensure the confidentiality of the personal information of any client who inquire about or are given assistance by to the provisions of existing laws: Subject
e rehabilitation services when necessary based on the outcome of in-depth interview to clients referred by PAGCOR, and shall shall provide life coaching. counseling. wellness,and
ensure client's confidentiality:
Mem -PAGCOR Page 1of
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g. If a client/patient referred by PAGCOR to injuries/ailments in the course of treatment.PAGCOR shall not be held liable therefor suffers
h Costs that will arise from a customer's treatment by shall be
solely for the account of the customer and not of PAGCOR
There is no employer-employee relationship between PAGCOR and
1 That monthly admissions. particularly of patients/residents suffering from information, if any,and other related matters for the enhancement of the responsible gaming program. gambling addiction, after-care services, success/recovery data and shall provide a quarterly report to PAGCOR showing
2 That any violation of the foregoing agreements will warrant the cancellation of this Memorandum of Agreement by either party within thirty (30) days upon notice to the other party.
3. That this Memorandum of Agreement shall be effective upon signature of both within three (3 years from date of effectivity.renewable at the option of parties and implementation will begin immediately and shall continue to be vatid PAGCOR in accordance with law
In witness whereof the parties have signed this Memorandum of Agreement at this day of 2025
AND GAMING CORPORATION PHILIPPINE AMUSEMENT TIN: 033-000-887-972 TIN
By By
ALEJANDRO H.TENGCO TIN TIN
SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE OF
0
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Republic of the Philippines )S.S
Before me. a Notary Public for and in the above jurisdiction this 2025.personally appeared day of
NAME GOVERNMENT IDPRESENTED
ALEJANDRO H. TENGCO
Issuance Date
Expiration Dato
Place of Issuance
known to me and by me known to be the same person who executed the foregoing Memorandum of Agreement consisting of four (4) pages. including the page wherein this Acknowledgment is written, and acknowiedged before me that the same is her free and voluntary act and deed and of the entity she represents
WITNESS MY HAND AND NOTARIAL SEAL,at the place and on the da:e and place above written
Doc. No Series of Page No Book No
Momarandun G -PAGCOR Pogo 3 c4
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Republic of the Phitippines )S.S Before me.a Notary Public for and in the above jurisdiction this 2025. personaily appeared day of
NAME GOVERNMENTID PRESENTED
Issuance Date Expiration Date Piace of Issuance
Acknowledgment is written, and acknowledged before me that the same is his free and voluntary act and deed and of the entity he represents. known to me and by me known to be the same person who executed the foregoing Memorandum of Agreement consisting of four (4 pages, including the page wherein this
WITNESS MY HAND AND NOTARIAL SEAL at the place and on the date and place above written
Doc. No. Page No Book No Series of
OAC C Poe4
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ANNEX B
This is granted to
<<INSTITUTION NAME>
This Certificate of Accreditation applies to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Rehabilitation Center located at
<<ADDRESS OF THE INSTITUTION>> PAGCOR This Certificate shall be non-assignable, non-transferable and valid from
REHABILITATION CENTER PROMBLEM GAMBLING CERTIFICATE OF ACCREDITATION TREATMENT AND fot This Certificate is renewable every three (3) years and subject to revocation, if found in violation of the Implementing Rules and Guidelines for Problem Gambling Treatment and Rehabilitation In WITNESS HEREOF,with authority from the Board of Directors of PAGCOR, I have hereunto Set my hand and caused the seal of PAGCOR to be affixed herein the on this <<DAY>> day of <<START DATE>> unti<<END DATE>> <<MONTH>>at the City of Pasay,Philippines Center of PAGCOR and its related issuances
<<DEPARTMENT HEAD>> <<POSITION>>
GCR -DTTATONHOXOOCOXOXOOO
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation
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PAGCOR THE ACCREDITATION OF PROBLEM GAMBLING Gaming Licensing and Development Department TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION CENTERS Rev. No. Effectivity AUG 0 7 2025 0
ANNEX C
CO REHABILITATION CENTER ACCREDITATION AND GAMING LICENSING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT PROBLEM GAMBLING TREATMENT AND MONITORING CHECKLIST Page No. Form No Revision No Effectivity RGLD/RS XX Page 1 of 1
DATE INSTITUTION ADDRESS
CHECKLIST DTI Registration Organizational Structure Letter of intent DOH Registration Business Permit SEC Registration Secretary Certificate voehstwthohcascnotcn
Updated Curriculum Vitae of Center's Gambling Specialist Business Profile
List of past and present affiliation or partnership (if any) List of nearest accredited hospital/s Contact Information
REMARKS
WITNESSED BY CHECKED AND VERIFIED BY
SIGNATURE OVER PRINTED NAME DATE SIGNATURE OVER PRINTED NAME DATE
APPROVED BY
SIGNATURE OVER PRINTED NAVE DATE
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