The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) has updated its gross gaming revenue (GGR) rates for licensed sports betting operators, setting a 15% rate for live sports betting and a 30% rate for virtual sports. The changes take effect starting from the billing cycle of November 2025, following a memo issued by PAGCOR’s Electronic Gaming Licensing Department on January 19. These adjustments reflect the board-approved amendments to the “Regulatory Framework for Fees and Rates on Gaming Venue Operations,” which were finalized on January 8. The memo clarifies PAGCOR’s share for sports betting categories and applies retroactively, although it does not disclose the previous fee setup in detail. This move is part of PAGCOR’s broader effort to standardize collection rates across e-gaming sectors and align fee structures with historical industry trends.
Live Sports Betting Rate Adjustment
Under the new framework, live sports betting operators must now remit 15% of GGR to PAGCOR. This rate represents a reduction from the 17.5% rate applied since January 2025 and the 22.5% rate used in mid-2023. While the adjustment provides relief to operators, it also ensures a consistent revenue stream for the regulator. PAGCOR notes that the change reflects ongoing market growth and aims to balance regulatory oversight with industry sustainability. By setting a stable and predictable rate, the regulator helps operators plan ahead while maintaining compliance requirements.
Virtual Sports Remains Stable
Virtual sports operators will continue to pay a 30% GGR rate, a level that has been in place since January 2025. This rate is significantly lower than the 41.25% rate imposed in August 2023. The continued rate stability supports virtual sports providers, enabling them to expand their offerings without facing sudden fee increases. The memo reinforces the existing structure, signaling PAGCOR’s intent to maintain predictability in a sector that has seen consistent consumer demand.
Broader Regulatory Moves
Beyond rate adjustments, PAGCOR is also strengthening its fee framework for gaming system administrators. A separate memo issued in December mandates a minimum guaranteed monthly fee for accredited system administrators, effective April 1, 2026. This requirement applies regardless of whether administrators offer electronic casino games. Together, these measures reflect PAGCOR’s effort to build transparent and sustainable revenue models across all electronic gaming sectors.
Framework Evolves With Market Needs
Overall, PAGCOR’s recent updates demonstrate its continued calibration of regulatory policies to match the evolving sports betting landscape. By defining clear GGR rates for live and virtual sports, while introducing minimum fees for system administrators, the regulator reinforces its role in shaping a growing and competitive gaming industry.
