The introduction of Gamblers Anonymous in the Philippines began with a small group of individuals who had experienced the devastating effects of gambling addiction. These individuals learned about GA through international connections, literature, and online resources. In the absence of a fellowship focused solely on gambling, many joined meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, which were already established in the Philippines and also follow the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.
These recovering gambling addicts took the initiative to form a GA group in their community. They started by organizing informal meetings where they could discuss the challenges they faced and support one another. Word of mouth played a significant role in the growth of the fellowship, as members shared their experiences and invited others who were struggling with gambling addiction to attend meetings.
As attendance grew, the group established regular meetings with a consistent schedule, following the format and principles of GA, including the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Members also reached out to the Gamblers Anonymous International Service Office for guidance and resources to ensure that the fellowship in the Philippines aligned with the core principles of GA.
By 2011, two meetings were registered on the Gamblers Anonymous International Service Office website: the Machiato Group and the Baywalk Buddies Group. The Machiato Group held meetings every Friday at Bo’s Coffee in Glorietta 5, Ayala Center, Makati, while the Baywalk Buddies Group met every Sunday at Aloha Hotel in Manila.
Over time, these groups took different paths. The Baywalk Buddies Group eventually dissolved, while the Machiato Group evolved into the Bets Off Home Group, which began meeting on February 9, 2019, at UCC Cafe Terrace in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
By January 2020, the group launched its website (www.gaphilippines.org) and Facebook group (facebook.com/groups/gapilipinas).
In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic affected the entire world. Like many recovery fellowships, GA Pilipinas transitioned to online meetings using Zoom, holding sessions at 6:30 PM Manila time to continue supporting members.
When government restrictions were eased, the group returned to face-to-face meetings. Four new home groups were established: (1) Winner’s Circle in Baguio City, (2) Subok Na To in Alabang, Muntinlupa, (3) Kabalikat Home Group in Quezon City, and (4) All In Home Group in Nueva Ecija, allowing more members to attend meetings in their respective areas.
These GA groups incorporated local and cultural elements into their meetings and activities to make the program more relatable and accessible. Recognizing that addiction affects not only individuals but also their families, some members encouraged family members and co-dependents to join support groups as well.
On February 25–26, 2023, GA Pilipinas hosted its first Recovering Gamblers Unity Day, an event dedicated to celebrating unity, strength, and the shared journey of recovery. The event highlighted fellowship, progress, awareness, milestones, hope, and commitment to recovery, with 89 attendees.
In November 2024, Gamblers Anonymous Philippines reached an important milestone when it was officially recognized by the Gamblers Anonymous International Service Office (ISO), confirming that it follows the same principles and recovery program used by GA groups worldwide. This recognition reflected the dedication and unity of its members who continued to grow the fellowship despite challenges such as limited awareness and social stigma. It also strengthened the credibility of GA Pilipinas, deepened its connection with the global GA community, and supported its continued growth, which now includes 11 home groups, with more meetings being opened in key cities across the Philippines to reach and support more individuals and families affected by compulsive gambling.
History of GA PILIPINAS