How to be a responsible gamer

MANILA, Philippines — “Responsible gaming,” according to the Association of Certified Gaming Compliance Specialists, is “the practice of gambling in a way that minimizes the potential negative effects that it can have on individuals and society.”

For DigiPlus Interactive Corp. president Andy Tsui, responsible gaming is a key tenet of their business.

“DigiPlus works to ensure that the necessary and vital regulations Pagcor sets for gaming companies in the Philippines are strictly observed,” he said. However, he also urged DigiPlus customers to practice responsible gaming on their own to derive the most fun and enjoyment from their games.

Publicly listed DigiPlus operates the leading digital gaming platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and PeryaGame.

As the fastest-growing digital entertainment group in the country, DigiPlus offers non-stop fun and games but when money is in the mix, it espouses a certain level of self-control for the most positive gaming experience possible.

There are a number of ways for enthusiasts to maintain a healthy and positive relationship with gaming. Consider these tips based on advice given by the Responsible Gaming Council:

Set limits. When gaming, it’s important to set limits on two things: budget and time. Before you start playing, keep a firm budget in mind. Never play with money you can’t afford to lose, and do not ever borrow money from others to play.

Meanwhile, deciding on a clear-cut time and schedule for your gaming sessions will keep you from spiraling into overindulgence. Set an alarm to tell you when your gaming session is over. Playing within your means will prevent gaming from taking over your daily life.

Only play with a clear mind. Be sure to monitor your mental and physical states before starting a gaming session. Do not engage in gambling when feeling upset or stressed as these may cloud your judgment and deter you from making sound decisions. At the same time, do limit alcohol intake while playing.

Stay sober and level-headed at all times.

Lastly, taking frequent breaks may help, too. Step away from the gaming table or phone, and feel free to indulge in some physical activity before coming back to play.

Do not ‘chase’ your losses. Always get into each gaming session prepared to lose the money that you’re putting in. Games featured at DigiPlus locations and on the BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and PeryaGames apps are predicated on chance, which means there’s never any guarantee of a return on your payments.

Avoid the “sunken cost syndrome” of trying to get a positive outcome because one has put too much resources into one effort. Stick to your budget and be ready at any time to cut your losses and move on.

Tsui is optimistic that customers who take these tips seriously are assured of a positively pleasurable gaming experience. “DigiPlus endeavors to strictly implement Pagcor-approved regulations and guidelines as customers use our gaming facilities,” he said. “This way we are confident that we can create safe spaces for them to have fun and enjoyment at all times.”

Since venturing into the digital segment in January 2022, DigiPlus has rapidly amassed a robust user base across its digital ecosystem.