Alejandro Tengco, chairman and CEO of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), confirmed that the regulator will launch casinofilipino.com, its official online casino brand, by the last quarter of 2024. Tengco made the announcement on Thursday during the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) Asia in Macau. He emphasized that the agency is finalizing a joint venture for the platform.
“We’ve already spoken to three companies,” Tengco explained. “I’ve selected one, and by July, we should be ready to announce our partner.” He stressed that choosing a credible, experienced company would eliminate the need for a learning curve. This would fast-track the platform’s success.
Despite PAGCOR’s plans to privatize its land-based Casino Filipino venues, Tengco clarified that the launch of casinofilipino.com complements the agency’s modernization efforts. It does not contradict them. In fact, he said the new online brand will serve as the second phase of the full privatization plan.
“My goal is to privatize all Casino Filipino land-based operations first,” Tengco stated. “Then, once casinofilipino.com is fully operational, we’ll begin phase two—privatizing the digital platform as well.”
He outlined a tentative timeline, saying the privatization process could begin as early as Q4 2025. It could conclude by Q1 2026. With over 40 Casino Filipino locations operating in leased venues across the country, PAGCOR already secured renovation agreements for several sites. At least three building owners have begun upgrades.
In preparation, PAGCOR ordered 1,968 new slot machines from RGB International Bhd. Delivery will start in July. The units include machines from top-tier providers like Light & Wonder, Aristocrat, Konami, and KL Saberi. PAGCOR also plans to acquire an additional 1,377 units before the end of 2024. It will also upgrade its table games with a new casino management system.
Tengco believes these upgrades will boost customer interest and investor confidence. “By modernizing our venues, we’re making them more attractive and profitable for future owners,” he said. He also confirmed that PAGCOR will likely offer exclusive operating rights for certain branches during the privatization phase.
Additionally, he highlighted that launching casinofilipino.com creates new revenue streams during the transition period. “The online platform will generate significant value, even before full privatization,” Tengco added.
Ultimately, Tengco aims to complete the transition before his term ends in 2028. “Once we become a purely regulatory body, the gaming industry will benefit from fair competition and sustainable growth,” he concluded.
