How Bantay Pusta App Works
Bantay Pusta is designed to help protect you from gambling while supporting your recovery journey step by step. It works quietly in the background to block access to gambling, track progress, and provide tools that encourage long term change.
The app focuses on three core areas: protection, recovery support, and accountability.
1. Protection Starts at the Device Level
Once Bantay Pusta is active, it applies protection directly on your device.
- Gambling websites are blocked automatically
- Gambling and betting apps are restricted or prevented from opening
- Protection stays active even when the app is closed
This reduces exposure to triggers and removes the need to rely on willpower alone during difficult moments.
2. Continuous Monitoring and Blocking
The app continuously monitors activity related to gambling access.
- Attempts to open blocked websites are stopped instantly
- Gambling apps are prevented from launching
- Repeated attempts are tracked through protection widgets
This monitoring happens quietly and consistently without notifications unless needed.
3. Recovery Tools Work Alongside Protection
Bantay Pusta is not only a blocker. It includes tools that support emotional and mental recovery.
Key recovery features include:
- A Bet Free Timer that tracks how long you have stayed gambling free
- Recovery streaks that show consistency over time
- Reflections, journaling, and optional recovery modules
- Language support in English and Tagalog
These tools help reinforce progress and self awareness.
4. Accountability Through Structure, Not Control
Some features are intentionally limited to support recovery.
- Protection cannot be turned off instantly
- Devices cannot be removed without contacting support
- Certain profile details require a request to change
These boundaries are designed to prevent impulsive decisions during vulnerable moments.
5. Reporting and Community Powered Protection
Bantay Pusta improves over time with help from its users.
- You can report gambling apps or websites that were missed
- Reported apps are reviewed and added to protection lists
- This strengthens blocking accuracy for everyone
Reports are anonymous and focused only on improving protection.
6. Clear Status and Transparency
The app provides clear indicators so you know what is happening.
- Protection Status shows whether blocking is active
- Widgets display attempts blocked and weekly patterns
- Subscription and device sections explain limits and usage
This transparency helps build trust and confidence in the system.
7. Privacy Comes First
Bantay Pusta is built with privacy in mind.
- You can use the app anonymously
- Personal notes and recovery data are protected
- No unnecessary data is shared
Your recovery journey remains yours.
Putting It All Together
Bantay Pusta works by:
- Blocking access to gambling consistently
- Interrupting harmful habits before they lead to action
- Supporting recovery with structure and tools
- Encouraging accountability without judgment
It is not about punishment or control. It is about creating space, safety, and support so recovery can happen one day at a time.