The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation is considering smart gaming tables for casinos, with larger integrated resorts potentially beginning implementation in 2027 before a later expansion to smaller venues.
PAGCOR said it has not set technical requirements or issued a mandate. It also has not confirmed whether every casino would eventually need to install the systems.
“PAGCOR is considering the adoption of smart gaming table technology as part of the continuing development of our regulatory framework,” it said. “The specific requirements and manner of implementation, however, are still being studied.”
Larger integrated resorts could be first under a phased approach
The regulator is considering a rollout beginning with larger integrated resorts next year, followed later by smaller casinos. However, it said it could not yet disclose specific timelines.
This leaves operators without certainty on the start date, technical standards or eventual scope of the policy. Smaller venues also have no confirmed deadline for assessing the investment required.
PAGCOR said deployment costs are one reason it is considering a phased rollout. Larger resorts generally operate more tables and have greater resources to support changes across their gaming floors.
“We recognise that implementing this technology will require investment from operators, which is one consideration for the phased rollout beginning with the bigger casinos,” the regulator said.
Smart tables would improve visibility over gaming transactions
Smart-table systems can provide more detailed information about activity at gaming tables. PAGCOR said its priority is clearer visibility over transactions and more effective oversight of casino operations.
“We believe that the benefits of this undertaking will outweigh the costs through greater visibility of gaming transactions and more effective oversight,” it said. “Ultimately, our goal is to harness technology to strengthen the integrity, transparency, and effectiveness of gaming regulation.”
The proposal comes as the land-based casino sector faces weaker revenue. Licensed casinos generated PHP45.37 billion in second-quarter gross gaming revenue, only slightly above the PHP44.52 billion recorded in the first quarter.
Across all segments, second-quarter GGR fell 20.33 per cent year on year to PHP88.13 billion. PAGCOR expects recovery despite inflation and the Middle East crisis weighing on discretionary spending.
Smart tables could give PAGCOR better visibility over casino transactions and improve regulatory oversight, but the cost question will matter for smaller operators. A phased rollout makes sense, yet casinos need technical standards and realistic timelines before they can assess the investment.
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