The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has ordered all BSP-supervised financial institutions (BSIs) to remove links to in-app gambling services from their payment applications and websites within 48 hours.

The directive covers e-wallet providers, banks, and other BSIs, and applies to any product, service, or feature that redirects account holders to gaming or gambling sites.

The BSP said the order was prompted by a surge in online gambling transactions and their negative effects on the financial well-being of consumers and their families, as well as the broader social impact.

The suspension will remain in effect while the BSP develops a comprehensive policy on payment services linked to online gambling.