The number of people excluded from Philippines casinos at either their own request or that of their families grew 15.0% in 2021 to 206, although that figure was less than half the number of new exclusions recorded prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to figures published by gaming regulator PAGCOR this week, the 206 new exclusions in 2021 included 94 self-exclusions and 112 individuals excluded at the request of family. This compares with 179 exclusions in 2020 comprising 58 self-exclusions, 112 family exclusions and nine exclusions at the request of casino operators.
However, the 2021 figures are less than half the record 472 exclusions recorded in 2019.
Exclusions can last anywhere from three months up to five years.
Including those exclusions still valid from previous years, there are currently 1,215 people excluded from Philippines casinos, PAGCOR said.