PAGCOR Projects Electronic Gaming Revenue to Hit PHP160 Billion in 2025

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the country’s gaming regulator, anticipates that gross gaming revenue (GGR) from the electronic gaming sector will soar to PHP160 billion (US$2.75 billion) in 2025.

According to PAGCOR, the e-Games segment has been the strongest driver of GGR growth in 2024. Data from the regulator shows that in the first nine months of the year, the sector generated nearly PHP89.08 billion—marking an astounding 502.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The third quarter alone saw GGR reach PHP35.71 billion, reflecting a 464.38% year-on-year surge.

PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco recently emphasized that advancements in technology and mobile devices are steering the gaming industry toward a digital future. “The future of gaming will be online,” Tengco noted, highlighting the growing dominance of digital platforms.

In a move aimed at bolstering the sector, PAGCOR announced a reduction in remittance rates for both online and on-site betting platforms starting January 1. Industry analysts believe this adjustment will further fuel GGR growth. Under the new structure, e-Games operators are now subject to a 30% remittance rate, while integrated resort operators offering electronic gaming will benefit from a reduced 25% rate to offset the operational costs of their physical venues.

This latest adjustment follows an earlier policy shift in April 2024, when PAGCOR lowered the license fee—calculated as a share of revenue—to 35%. This marks a significant drop from the more than 50% rate imposed in 2022, making the market more attractive to operators.

PAGCOR reports that the lower rates have encouraged a wave of new participants in the regulated gaming sector. “Numerous service providers have applied for accreditation, registering their electronic gaming systems and games with PAGCOR,” the agency stated. Additionally, a growing number of operators have secured gaming licenses, expanding the availability of electronic and virtual gaming offerings across the country.

These positive developments, PAGCOR added, are expected to continue through 2025, contributing to increased government revenues that will support national development initiatives.

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