The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has approved a series of amendments to its electronic gaming regulations. These changes introduce updates that affect gaming affiliates, support service providers, payment providers, and gaming venue operators.
The revised framework was approved by PAGCOR’s Board of Directors on May 21, 2026. It aims to streamline compliance requirements, clarify regulatory obligations, and improve oversight across the country’s growing iGaming sector.
New Requirements for Financial Institutions
A major focus of the amendments is the treatment of BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions (BSFIs). These include banks, digital banks, non-bank financial institutions, and electronic money issuers regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Under the updated rules, BSFIs accredited as support service providers must comply with applicable Anti-Money Laundering Council requirements relevant to their business activities. Moreover, the BSP will report any violations to PAGCOR’s Anti-Money Laundering Supervision and Enforcement Department, which may impose regulatory sanctions where necessary.
PAGCOR also stated that any suspension, cancellation, or revocation of a BSFI’s accreditation will be coordinated with the BSP.
Accreditation Process Simplified
The regulator has removed several documentation requirements to simplify the accreditation process.
References to the Personal Disclosure Statement have been eliminated. At the same time, BSFI payment gateway and payment channel providers must now submit valid licenses issued by the BSP.
In addition, BSFI applicants seeking accreditation as support service providers may use proof of compliance with BSP fit-and-proper standards. They may do this instead of third-party probity eligibility requirements.
Marketing and promotional service providers must continue to submit relevant licenses or certifications. They are required to do so where required by industry regulators or professional bodies.
Changes for Payment Channels
PAGCOR has also removed a previous requirement. This requirement forced payment channels to provide direct links redirecting prospective players to an operator’s registration portal.
The change is intended to reduce operational complexity and align payment-related requirements with current industry practices.
New Fee for Gaming Venue Modifications
The amendments introduce a PHP50,000 processing fee for applications involving the relocation, expansion, or reduction of gaming venue areas. This applies within the same building, compound, or complex.
The fee will apply to venue operators seeking approval for physical modifications to their gaming facilities.
Rules Take Effect in June
According to PAGCOR, the amendments are designed to address inconsistencies in existing regulations. They also provide clearer guidance for regulated entities operating within the Philippine gaming sector.
The revised framework will take effect on June 4, 2026, following its publication on PAGCOR’s regulatory website.
The latest changes form part of PAGCOR’s broader effort to modernize its regulatory framework. This effort comes as the Philippine iGaming industry continues to expand and attract new operators, suppliers, and financial service providers.
