The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) expects total revenue to decline by 18% to nearly PHP87 billion (US$1.41 billion) in 2026, as tighter payment controls and weaker consumer spending continue to weigh on gaming activity.
Payment Controls Weigh on Gaming Activity
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco presented the forecast during a House Committee on Appropriations budget hearing. The projected revenue is PHP19.08 billion (US$310 million) below the PHP106.03 billion recorded in 2025, which had already declined 5.1% from the previous year.
Tengco said gaming activity fell by around 40% after e-wallets were delinked from online gambling platforms in late 2025, making it more difficult for customers to fund their accounts. Although activity recovered early in 2026, the Middle East crisis subsequently affected consumer spending, particularly among lower- and middle-income players.
PAGCOR’s first-half results reflected the slowdown. Revenue fell 26.64% year-on-year to PHP43.32 billion, while gaming operations revenue declined 27.11% to PHP38.92 billion. Revenue from eGames, eBingo and bingo grantees dropped 41.85% to PHP18.60 billion.
Gaming Activity Shows Early Recovery
Despite the weaker first-half performance, gaming activity increased 10% in July and remained stable in August. Integrated resorts also reported stronger tourist patronage, with a slight increase recorded toward the end of July and early August.
Tengco said the upcoming peak gaming season could help PAGCOR recover part of the revenue shortfall. However, the full-year outlook remains challenging as payment restrictions and broader economic conditions continue to influence player activity.
The forecast highlights the growing impact of payment accessibility, consumer spending and regulatory measures on the performance of the Philippine gaming market.
