Key facts
- Helpline calls related to gambling addiction in the Philippines have surged.
- Calls to Bridges of Hope's hotline are now nine out of 10, up from seven out of 10 in 2025.
- Gambling addiction is noted to break down family units due to unpaid bills, lost jobs, and relationship breakdowns.
- Bridges of Hope has expanded its rehabilitation centers to 16 and plans to add three more.
- Recovering Gamblers of the Philippines is using AI to manage a daily call volume of 30, up from 20 last year.
The number of helpline calls related to gambling addiction in the Philippines has significantly increased, according to Jon Ty, founder and director of Bridges of Hope. Calls concerning gambling now constitute nine out of 10 of the total received by the center, a rise from seven out of 10 in 2025. Ty highlighted that gambling addiction severely impacts family units, leading to financial instability, job loss, and relationship breakdowns. To address the growing demand, Bridges of Hope has expanded its facilities to 16 centers and plans to open three more this year. Similarly, Recovering Gamblers of the Philippines is experiencing a surge in calls, now averaging 30 per day compared to 20 last year. The organization is utilizing AI to manage the increased workload, particularly during late-night hours, which they identify as a period of heightened desperation for gamblers.