BIZ BUZZ: Casino Plus hits the jackpot

Digital gaming platform Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma has added another trophy to his shelf after being inducted into the SiGMA Asia 2026 “Hall of Game,” an award given to gaming industry figures deemed influential in shaping the global sector.

The recognition would normally be a straightforward pat on the back. But it comes at a time when the online gaming industry is under an increasingly bright spotlight in the Philippines.

Spytma used the occasion not to tout growth figures or market share, but to emphasize responsible gaming—a theme that has become harder for operators to ignore as regulators and lawmakers intensify discussions on the social impact of online betting.

In his acceptance speech, he credited regulators, partners and developers, while stressing the importance of keeping players “in control” and encouraging them to “play responsibly.”

The company also reminded players that gaming is meant for entertainment, not as a source of income or financial relief. It also stressed that winning is never guaranteed and that past results do not predict future outcomes.

For an industry often associated with flashy jackpot stories and aggressive marketing, the messaging stood out.

Around 16,000 industry participants attended the broader summit, where responsible gaming and evolving regulations were among the key topics discussed.

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Whether the spotlight remains on accolades or shifts further toward accountability may depend less on industry awards and more on how operators navigate the growing debate over responsible gaming.