On Monday, September 8, 2025, Alejandro Tengco, the head of the Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), highlighted the importance of enhanced regulation over an outright ban of the iGaming sector during his speech at the Light & Wonder iGaming Symposium, held at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City. Light & Wonder, a key player as the first licensed iGaming content provider in the Philippines, is set to introduce 50 new online game titles, marking a significant step in the country’s expanding iGaming industry.
In 2024, the Philippines’ iGaming market recorded an impressive PHP154.51 billion (US$2.725 billion) in gross gaming revenue, representing a 165% increase compared to the previous year. By the first half of 2025, the sector had already generated PHP114.83 billion in GGR, surpassing the income from land-based casinos and significantly contributing to Pagcor’s total revenues, which reached PHP59 billion. The rapid growth illustrates the robust demand for online gaming, driven by the convenience and accessibility it offers to players.
A report from Statista in 2025 reinforced this trend, noting that Filipino players have increasingly favored online gambling because it allows them to enjoy a wide variety of games and betting options from the comfort of their homes, without the need to visit physical establishments. However, this convenience is not without its pitfalls. The ease of access to online platforms can potentially lead to underage gambling, a concern highlighted by legislators.
In an effort to address these challenges, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri proposed a bill in July aimed at banning all digital gambling platforms outright. He expressed concerns about the accessibility of online gambling, likening it to a child gambling secretly late at night, risking the family’s financial stability. Meanwhile, a separate bill in the House, sponsored by Rep Chel Diokno, seeks to enhance oversight rather than impose a ban. This legislation proposes a 10% tax on iGaming revenue, with the proceeds earmarked for funding problem gambling resources. Additionally, it seeks to restrict iGaming advertisements, prohibit the use of e-wallets, and limit credit card deposits to mitigate risks associated with problem gambling. The bill also calls for stricter know-your-customer protocols to ensure that individuals under 21 are not participating in online games.
Despite these legislative challenges, Tengco remains an advocate for the online gaming industry, projecting that its revenue could escalate to PHP99 billion by 2027. Addressing the Light & Wonder conference attendees, he emphasized that the focus should not merely be on growth but on how the industry can expand safely and sustainably. “We support stricter regulations to protect our people,” he noted, warning that a complete ban would likely push players towards illegal operators, thereby jeopardizing revenue streams and jobs.
The Philippines Daily Tribune reported on Pagcor’s ongoing reforms, which include a strategic move to divest its casino assets, transitioning Pagcor into a pure regulatory entity. Among the initiatives is the development of digital tools like the Pagcor Guarantee portal and AI-driven systems designed to enhance player monitoring. A 24/7 problem gambling helpline is also in the pipeline, demonstrating Pagcor’s commitment to addressing gambling-related issues proactively.
Tengco urged iGaming operators to embrace a “compliance by design” approach, which he believes is crucial for mitigating underage and problem gambling, as well as combating money laundering and grey-market activities. He concluded that with a commitment to responsible growth, compliance, and transparency, the Philippines could cultivate a safer, stronger, and more competitive iGaming market on a global scale.
However, opponents of the industry argue that even with enhanced regulations, the allure of online gambling is too strong, particularly among young people who are tech-savvy and more likely to seek out these platforms. Critics warn that the potential for addiction and financial distress remains significant, and question whether regulatory measures alone can effectively mitigate these risks.
Balancing economic benefits with social responsibilities remains a challenge for the Philippines’ burgeoning iGaming industry. While some see the potential for substantial economic contributions and job creation, others remain wary of the societal impacts, particularly on vulnerable populations. As the debate continues, Pagcor’s role in steering the industry towards a model of growth that prioritizes public welfare remains pivotal. Whether stricter regulations can achieve the necessary balance without stifling innovation and growth is a question that will shape the industry’s future in the Philippines.
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