PAGCOR implements new fees and player protection tools for online gambling

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has implemented a new minimum guaranteed fee regime for licensed online gambling operators. Following two deferrals, the fee structure took effect on July 1. Under these rules, Gaming System Administrators offering electronic casino games must pay a monthly minimum of PHP 9 million (approximately $155,000) once gross gaming revenue exceeds PHP 30 million. Operators without electronic casino games face a PHP 3 million floor above a PHP 15 million revenue threshold.

Industry experts suggest the fee structure may cause a shakeup among smaller, thinly capitalized licensees. PhilWeb Corp President Brian Ng noted that while the floor might impact smaller operators, it could favor established, compliant companies and improve product quality. Currently, an estimated 15 to 20 accredited administrators account for roughly 80 percent of the sector's total gross gaming revenue.

In a separate effort to strengthen the industry, PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco announced the development of a mobile application intended to help players distinguish licensed operators from illegal platforms. Expected to launch before the end of 2026, the app aims to improve player protection by providing a mechanism to resolve disputes and a way to verify valid licenses. This initiative is part of a broader crackdown on unauthorized online gaming services in the Philippines.