Geline Salac

‘Pusta de Peligro’ short films launched to promote responsible gaming

Article (news)

Josh Mercado

MANILA -- Many notable stars are now endorsing online gaming and betting brands, and many netizens have expressed their concerns on whether normalizing it is good or bad, especially with celebrities&#x27; faces on it.When Lars Pacheco announced to the public that she had lost 5 million in online gaming, it sparked a discourse among social media users who thanked her for educating them about responsible gaming.Following Pacheco&#x27;s public admission, many have spoken out about their experiences with online gaming. Thus DigiPlus, PAGCOR, and the BingoPlus Foundation recently started a responsible gaming campaign “Pusta de Peligro” with three short films, each intended to prompt self-reflection and inspire thoughtful gaming choices.A press screening of their three short films was recently held at the Gateway Cinema. The first short film depicts a woman divided between breaking her piggy bank to place a bet and keeping her hard-earned money. The second film shows a guy (played by actor-singer Los Akiyama) who is forced to choose between spending his money on lunch and risking everything on a gamble. The third video depicts a woman with worn-out shoes who is divided between purchasing a much-needed replacement and taking a chance on a game.<div> </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1737681563186image0 (1).jpeg" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Actor-singer Los Akiyama appears in ‘Pusta de Peligro’ short film. Photo by Josh Mercado. Akiyama, one of the featured stars, previously told ABS-CBN News that he is in the process of seeking new opportunities and aspires to be an actor.</div>“I’m coming in to this with a mindset that I just have to keep creating and keep putting myself out there. I have to be seen. I like what I’m doing. Gusto ko ang craft ko. I just have to keep creating so that people know and discover who am I,” he said.Through these relevant, real-life circumstances, &quot;Pusta de Peligro&quot; pushes viewers to notice when gaming changes from fun to risk, and urges them to accept the campaign&#x27;s call: &quot;Pag Pusta de Peligro na, pause na muna dahil ang gaming dapat [ay] fun-fun lang.&quot;As part of their launch, the company collaborated with mental health specialists, financial advisors, and educators to develop a campaign that relates to the realities of Filipino gamers.The event&#x27;s highlight was a discussion with Teresita Castillo of the International Gambling Counselors Certification Board and financial coach Armand Bengco. They discussed the value of education, early intervention, and expert collaboration in creating a safe and responsible gaming culture.“Responsible gaming is the foundation of a sustainable gaming industry. With ‘Petsa de Peligro,’ we’re proving that advocacy and innovation can go hand in hand to create a safer, more enjoyable gaming environment for all,” said the company’s chairman Eusebio Tanco. The company’s previous initiatives were “Tamang Laro” and Tamang Panalo.”

DigiPlus, PAGCOR, and the BingoPlus Foundation recently started a responsible gaming campaign 'Pusta de Peligro' with three short films.

DigiPlus, PAGCOR, and the BingoPlus Foundation recently started a responsible gaming campaign 'Pusta de Peligro' with three short films.