The GCash mobile payment app is under scrutiny in the Philippines due to a reported increase in online gambling addiction, primarily affecting women.

The app, with over 90 million users, connects individuals to platforms like Bingo Plus and Arena Plus. This connection raises concerns about its impact on gambling habits.

Meanwhile, this comes as GCash is not the only app implicated.

Last year, the country’s Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo sought a House of Representatives probe into Maya Digital Savings Bank for having “so many gambling apps” on its platform.

Online gambling in the Philippines grew during the pandemic. These services enable quick deposits and withdrawals on betting sites.

However, exact figures for Filipino online gamblers remain unclear.