Gambling-related calls to Philippine helpline rise to nine in 10

Calls to a Manila rehabilitation centre hotline tied to gambling rose from seven in 10 total calls in 2025 to nine in 10 so far this year, the centre's founder said. Many callers were family members seeking help for relatives with gambling problems. The same source said some callers also reported drinking and other disorders among the gamblers.

Family and financial effects Gambling differs from substance problems because it affects entire households, the founder said. Unpaid tuition, unpaid bills, job losses and separations were listed as common outcomes.

Expanded services The centre has increased its facilities from 13 in 2025 to 16 and plans three additional centres later this year to handle the workload. A separate support group reported its helpline volume rising from 20 calls per day last year to 30 calls per day, with added resources for overnight hours.