PAGCOR Cites Online Gaming as Key Revenue Source While Warning Against Illegal Sites

Online gaming has become one of the Philippine government’s top revenue generators this year, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), which at the same time raised concerns over unregulated websites targeting local players.

In a report presented before the House Committee on Games and Amusements, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco revealed that the licensed online gaming industry generated Php69 billion in license fees from January to July 2025 alone. Of this amount, Php41 billion was derived from electronic games (E-Games), while Php28 billion came from other online gaming products.

“Because of its huge potential, online gaming has become an important source of funds for our nation-building commitments, including PAGCOR’s support for education, health care, and community development,” Tengco said.

He further disclosed that from January to July 2025, the sector’s contributions to nation-building amounted to Php27.47 billion. This included Php14.72 billion earmarked for the implementation of the Universal Health Care Law. PAGCOR’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs are also set to benefit, with funds allocated for projects such as the construction of school buildings, socio-civic centers, wellness centers, and E-Learning hubs.

“Every peso we collect from the gaming sector translates to meaningful projects such as classrooms for our children, health programs for our people, and safe spaces for communities in times of calamity. This is how we ensure that gaming directly benefits Filipinos,” Tengco emphasized.

Despite the strong showing of the licensed industry, the PAGCOR chief expressed alarm over the continued proliferation of illegal online gaming sites that lure players of all ages without proper protections.

“These illegal sites not only deprive the government of much-needed revenues but also expose Filipino players to numerous risks,” Tengco warned.

He assured lawmakers that PAGCOR is determined to tighten enforcement measures against such platforms. “PAGCOR is committed to strengthening regulation and enforcement to ensure that only legitimate and properly monitored operators are allowed to operate,” Tengco declared.

By fLEXI tEAM