The Philippine gaming sector is facing revenue pressure, rapid technological change and tighter regulatory demands after years of expansion.
Industry executives discussed the changing market at the Inside Asian Gaming Academy Summit, where figures showed Philippine gross gaming revenue (GGR) fell 20% to PHP88 billion ($1.4 billion) in the second quarter.
The decline was attributed to weaker electronic gaming revenue, inflation and geopolitical factors, although the country retains established casino infrastructure, a developed workforce and a strong position within the Asian gaming market.
Technology Creates New Regulatory Challenges
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said technological development is creating new opportunities while also introducing challenges for regulators.
As more gambling activity moves online, PAGCOR needs to adapt its regulatory framework while maintaining stability for licensed operators and investors.
Digital platforms can expand market access, but technology can also enable unlicensed operators to reach consumers outside the country’s regulatory safeguards.
Tengco has called for regulations that evolve alongside the industry while maintaining player protection and responsible gambling requirements.
PAGCOR Reviews Regulatory Structure
PAGCOR is also considering the separation of its regulatory and commercial functions.
The proposed decoupling would separate the agency’s role as a gaming regulator from its commercial operations, potentially giving it a more focused regulatory mandate.
PAGCOR has introduced additional measures for the electronic gaming sector, including a minimum guaranteed fee and a Unified Gaming License.
The regulator has also launched the PAGCOR Guarantee website, allowing consumers to verify whether online gambling platforms hold valid licences. A mobile application offering similar verification services is also under development.
Player Protection Remains a Priority
PAGCOR has expanded its responsible gambling initiatives alongside its regulatory measures.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline provides support for people experiencing gambling-related concerns, while the regulator’s self-exclusion programme allows individuals to voluntarily restrict their access to gambling activities.
The programme now covers more than 26,000 verified former players, according to information presented at the summit.
As electronic gambling continues to develop, PAGCOR is combining regulatory reforms, operator verification and responsible gambling tools to address risks associated with both licensed and illegal online activity.
For operators and suppliers, the evolving framework signals greater emphasis on licensing compliance, consumer protection and technology-driven regulatory oversight in the Philippine market.
