Under Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) regulations, electronic gaming operators (EGMs) are permitted to offer digital games, including lotteries, online.
According to a PAGCOR memorandum cited by Philippine gaming regulator Philstar, the minimum wagering limit is Php5, while operators must pay a two-year license application fee of Php200,000 and a cash deposit of Php200,000 per gaming venue.
The gambling regulator will receive around 15% of total gaming revenue from live games between July and December this year, as well as an initial 35% share of RNG (random number generator)-based games.
Starting in January 2025, this rate for RNG-based games will be reduced to 30%, in line with PAGCOR’s commitment to encourage growth in the video games industry.
The authority assured that the new format will be different from the one offered by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
PAGCOR's role in offshore gaming is rapidly being reshaped as offshore gaming operators under its jurisdiction are set to be banned by the end of the year, but this has also fueled speculation about how the onshore market could benefit and gain better oversight. .
PIGO can operate legally, catering purely to the needs of local customers, offering a variety of electronic gaming options through a variety of licensed venues, providing growing tax revenue to authorities and governments.
The shift to offshore gaming could lead to strong growth in the sector, which has been growing steadily since the pandemic forced gamblers to stay at home.
The diversification of games and the growth of game types, such as online bingo and online slot streaming, are important components of the transformation and are a sign of the Philippine market’s flexibility in dealing with adversity.
