PAGCOR will implement a reduced license fee of 35 percent for betting platforms by April 1st. Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco confirmed the update, noting it marks a 5 percent decrease from the current rate.
While speaking at the ASEAN Gaming Summit in Manila, Tengco emphasized the importance of this reduction for the industry. He recalled that license fees stood at over 50 percent when he assumed office in the latter half of 2022. He explained that aligning Philippine rates with global industry standards will encourage illegal operators to secure licenses, which will increase both licensing and regulatory revenues.
Tengco projected that electronically delivered gaming will remain the fastest-growing segment in the Philippine gaming industry. At the same time, he said that traditional games in licensed commercial-sector casinos will continue to dominate the market. He added that the nation’s Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), which includes non-casino operations, should reach PHP336.38 billion in 2024. He also highlighted that 2023 GGR already set a record, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
“These growth factors will position the Philippines as one of the most attractive gaming jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region,” Tengco stated. “We will continue to roll out more reforms to enhance our competitiveness across Asia.”
Tengco identified key drivers of growth in the industry. He cited the opening of more integrated resorts, the strong performance of electronic gaming, and the upcoming privatization of PAGCOR-operated casinos. He revealed that PAGCOR will begin the privatization process for Casino Filipino venues between late 2025 and early 2026. The agency aims to level the playing field and inject new energy into the industry.
Tengco confirmed that once PAGCOR completes the privatization, the agency will earn revenue solely from regulatory fees, gaming licenses, and a share of gross gaming revenues.
By focusing on its regulatory role, PAGCOR will promote safer, more responsible gaming practices while continuing to support nation-building. This transition will also remove PAGCOR from direct competition, firmly establishing it as a purely regulatory authority.
