Erwin Tulfo seeks House probe into digital bank's alleged link to gambling apps; Maya denies

A congressional inquiry has been sought by House Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo on the alleged link of digital banking platforms to gambling applications.

Tulfo made the call under House Resolution 1464 he filed. In a privilege speech, the lawmaker said the digital banks should be probed since the platform of Maya Digital Savings Bank carries links to various gambling apps that openly allows subscribers to participate in gambling activities.

Maya denied any involvement in gambling operations.

Tulfo said the gambling apps offer baccarat, poker, bingo, fruit games, and similar forms of gaming where subscribers can place bets through Maya's mobile wallet services.

"This question strikes at the core of our responsibility as lawmakers to protect the interests of the millions of subscribers who rely on Maya Digital Savings Bank for their financial transactions and digital wallet needs," he said.

"This investigation will shed light on whether these gambling activities are conducted in compliance with our laws and regulations, and whether they truly serve the best interests of our citizens," he added.

In a joint statement, Maya Bank and Maya Philippines denied the allegations and maintained that all of their operations have been approved by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

"Maya Bank and Maya Philippines want to clarify that neither company is engaged in any gambling operations. Maya Bank is a digital bank and Maya Philippines is an electronic money issuer (EMI). Both companies are duly licensed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to do business covered by their respective charters," they said.

Maya then argued that it facilitates digital payments for numerous merchants, including a few entities accredited by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

"Our services are focused on providing secure payments from all sources like credit cards and wallet cash-in facilities for eligible customers," it said.

"We maintain strict compliance with the guidelines set by the BSP, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and PAGCOR to ensure user safety, security, and responsible use of financial service technologies," Maya added.—AOL, GMA Integrated News