The Philippines’ intensified regulatory crackdown is taking a toll on the online gaming sector. DigiPlus Interactive Corp., the country’s largest online gaming platform and operator of BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, reported a 59% drop in third-quarter net income to PHP1.71 billion ($29.1 million).
Despite this sharp quarterly decline, the company maintained a 16% increase in profit over the first nine months of 2025, with consolidated net income reaching PHP10.11 billion ($172.5 million). DigiPlus attributed the slowdown to regulatory headwinds and operational disruptions following the central bank’s directive cutting e-wallet links to gambling platforms.
Central Bank’s Order Hits Player Transactions
Third-quarter revenue slid 23% year-on-year to PHP19.05 billion ($325 million), while EBITDA dropped 55% to PHP2 billion ($34.1 million). According to DigiPlus, these declines stemmed from “temporary disruptions in player activity and transaction volumes” after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) ordered e-wallet providers in August to delink in-app access to licensed gaming sites.
The BSP’s move formed part of broader efforts to reduce financial risks linked to online gambling. Early data from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) showed a 50% decline in online gaming transactions between August 17 and 19, though the long-term impact remains uncertain.
From Rapid Growth to Temporary Setback
The downturn followed a period of exceptional growth—DigiPlus’ net income surged 61% in the first half of 2025 and an impressive 207% in 2024.
However, despite the third-quarter slump, the company’s nine-month performance stayed strong, thanks to continued product innovation and operational efficiency. Total revenue rose 30% year-on-year to PHP66.83 billion ($1.14 billion), while EBITDA climbed 19% to PHP11.13 billion ($189.9 million).
During the same period, DigiPlus paid PHP25.59 billion ($437 million) in government taxes and regulatory fees—9% higher than in 2024. On a quarterly basis, however, tax payments fell 26% to PHP7.17 billion ($122.5 million), reflecting the effects of the e-wallet delinking.
Leadership Remains Optimistic
Chairman Eusebio Tanco reaffirmed the company’s commitment to stability and responsible growth:
“This period demonstrates DigiPlus’ resilience amid temporary setbacks. We continue to focus on digital innovation, player protection, and good governance as we expand responsibly into new markets.”
Strategic Moves to Strengthen Compliance
In response to tighter regulations, DigiPlus has launched several initiatives to enhance compliance, improve player protection, and diversify payment channels.
Notably, it introduced the Philippines’ first surety bond program for online players through a partnership with Philippine First Insurance Co. Inc., offering up to PHP1 million ($17,000) in financial protection per verified wallet.
Moreover, DigiPlus expanded its payment network by teaming up with CIS Bayad Center Inc., enabling over-the-counter transactions nationwide. These measures complement the company’s 24/7 customer service operations and a growing retail footprint of over 130 BingoPlus outlets.
