E-wallets to cut links with online gambling

E-wallet giants GCash and Maya have vowed to comply with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) order to sever connections with online gambling platforms.

In a statement Thursday, GCash said it will fully support the BSP’s directive by removing links and icons in its app that connect users to gambling sites. “We share the BSP’s commitment to ensuring that digital financial services are used responsibly and in ways that protect the welfare of Filipinos,” it said, adding that changes will be enforced immediately once the official order is received.

BSP Deputy Governor Mamerto Tangonan told a Senate hearing that e-wallets must unlink from gambling sites within 48 hours of receiving the directive.

Maya, in a separate statement, assured that it would also follow the order. “The update will be implemented in line with the BSP’s guidance. We assure customers that their accounts and transactions remain secure and fully operational,” it said.