The Philippines is on track to become Asia’s second-largest gaming market after Macau. Its gross gaming revenue (GGR) is projected to exceed US$7 billion in 2025. Newport World Resorts President and CEO Nilo Thaddeus Rodriguez made the forecast during the Inside Asian Gaming Expo in Pasay City, according to The Manila Times.
Growth drivers
Rodriguez highlighted improved tourism, rising investor confidence, and the surge of online gaming as key factors behind the industry’s rapid expansion. International tourist arrivals reached 5.95 million in 2024, generating US$13.46 billion in spending. This was a 9% increase from the previous year.
Digital platforms have accelerated this momentum. Online gaming accounted for 41.5% of GGR in 2024 and jumped to 53% in the first half of 2025. This increase generated US$2 billion. Rodriguez credited this growth to regulatory changes by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). These changes included lower licensing fees and stricter compliance rules. Moreover, the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force Grey List this year further strengthened investor sentiment.
Land-based expansion
Despite the dominance of eGames, Rodriguez emphasized that integrated resorts remain vital to tourism and economic development. Newport World Resorts is advancing its US$1.25 billion Westside City project. This project will feature 2,500 hotel rooms, 2,000 gaming units, theatres, and dining outlets. The property is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2026.
Outlook
Rodriguez underscored the company’s commitment to entertainment and job creation, with 14,000 positions currently supported. He admitted that infrastructure gaps and limited hotel capacity continue to pose challenges. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that the Philippines will solidify its role as a leading gaming hub in Asia.
