Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp’s Alejandro Tengco links softer Q3 revenues to enhanced RG measures. Better safeguards created inevitable revenue consequences. Alejandro Tengco spoke at G2E Asia @ the Philippines regarding gaming revenue patterns. Softer third-quarter gaming revenues stemmed from heightened consumer protections, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. Wednesday’s keynote address detailed these regulatory impacts.

“This includes the ongoing transition towards stronger financial safeguards for legitimate online gaming operators,” said Tengco. August orders required e-wallet delinking from iGaming transaction systems. Credit cards and cryptocurrencies face PAGCOR bans preventing “over-borrowing and impulsive behaviour”. Tengco acknowledged “these reforms inevitably have short-term impacts” resembling industry setbacks. Industry demonstrates sustainable long-term growth commitment through stricter regulations, he added. Global integrity and compliance standards must support modern digital gaming ecosystems.

Tengco declared, “We cannot build a modern digital gaming ecosystem on foundations that do not fully meet global integrity and compliance standards.” Responsible gaming and player protection extend this commitment further. Core policies prioritise consumer safety measures.

Consumer Protection Forms the Policy Foundation

New consumer protection standards emerged from PAGCOR over twelve months. The Ad Standards Council signed the July agreement, screening gambling-related advertisements before publication. Screening aims to “curb misleading content and protect vulnerable groups from potential harm”. Responsible gambling tools like self-exclusion options and betting limits became operator requirements. PAGCOR’s partnership with Seagulls Flock Organisation created 24/7 problem gambling helpline access. Accredited rehabilitation centres support problem gamblers through this collaboration.

Tengco explained, “These efforts reflect PAGCOR’s long-term goal of cultivating a more secure, transparent and internationally aligned gaming environment.” Regulatory agility, industry cooperation and integrity commitment shape gaming’s future requirements. Policies consistently prioritise player safety and well-being concerns.

The Philippines’ iGaming Sector Dominates the Market

Last year’s Philippines iGaming generated PHP154.51 billion GGR with 165% year-on-year growth. PHP114.83 billion came from iGaming during 2025’s first half of 2025. PAGCOR’s total revenues reached PHP59 billion as iGaming surpassed land-based earnings. 2025 Statista research found Filipino players “have shown a strong preference for online gambling due to its convenience and accessibility. Players can participate in various games and place bets from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need to travel to physical casinos.” Physical casino visits become unnecessary with online options. Third quarter GGR fell 0.11% while the e-games sector performed strongly overall. PHP41.95 billion resulted from a 17.4% period increase driven by June-July e-games. Total GGR included 44.4% from the e-games sector.