Following the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, interest in acquiring online gaming licenses from the country has significantly surged. Alejandro Tengco, Chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), confirmed that this development has led to a wave of new applications from international operators eager to enter the regulated market. According to Tengco, the improved global perception of the Philippines as a compliant and trustworthy jurisdiction has created fresh momentum for the country’s iGaming sector.
This renewed interest is especially evident among operators eyeing the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) license and the B2B/B2C licenses under PAGCOR’s new Internet Gaming Licensing framework. As PAGCOR pushes forward with reforms and stricter compliance requirements, many overseas firms view the Philippines as a viable gateway into the broader Asian gaming market. Tengco emphasized that confidence among foreign investors has grown stronger now that the country has taken substantial steps to address money laundering and terrorist financing risks.
Moreover, Tengco explained that PAGCOR’s digital shift and modernization plans have made licensing even more attractive. With a stronger regulatory backbone and the implementation of new technologies to ensure accountability, the agency is building an ecosystem that aligns with global standards. At the same time, this environment promotes responsible gaming and financial transparency.
Tengco also noted that several major industry players have already begun the licensing process, while others are actively inquiring about the necessary steps. This increase in demand reflects broader global trends, where regulatory clarity and robust compliance frameworks are now critical factors for operators choosing where to base their operations.
In summary, the Philippines’ exit from the FATF grey list has had a clear and immediate impact. It boosted the credibility of the country’s online gaming regulatory landscape, encouraged foreign investment, and positioned PAGCOR as a more attractive licensing authority in Asia. As PAGCOR continues to streamline its processes and reinforce oversight, the online gaming sector in the Philippines appears poised for sustained growth.
