Regulation in Philippines
PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) is the state-owned regulator and operator in the Philippines. It licences online casinos, poker operators and sportsbooks — both for domestic players and international B2B operators.
The Philippines is well known as a licensing hub — many operators serving markets worldwide hold PAGCOR licences. The CEZA (Cagayan Economic Zone Authority) also issues gambling licences.
POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) licences were historically issued for operators targeting offshore markets, but major reforms and closures occurred in 2024. The regulatory landscape continues to evolve.
Online Casinos in Philippines
Online casino is legal in the Philippines for PAGCOR-licensed operators. The domestic market is growing — slots, live dealer and table games are all available.
The Philippines is also home to many B2B providers supplying live casino studios to operators worldwide. Evolution Gaming and other major live casino suppliers have studios based in the Philippines.
Online Poker in Philippines
Online poker is legal under PAGCOR licences. The Philippines hosts major live poker events including the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) stops.
PokerStars and other major platforms are accessible to Philippine players. The online poker market is growing alongside increased gaming regulation.
Sports Betting in Philippines
Sports betting is popular in the Philippines. Basketball (PBA, NBA) and boxing are particularly popular alongside football. PAGCOR licences sports betting operators.
Sabong (cockfighting) is a deeply traditional sport in the Philippines and has moved online — live sabong streaming and betting attracted enormous participation before government crackdowns in 2022.
Lottery in Philippines
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) operates the national lottery. Lotto 6/42, Ultra Lotto 6/58 and Grand Lotto 6/55 are the main games.
PCSO lottery winnings are tax-free. Draws take place several times per week and are widely followed across the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online gambling legal in the Philippines?
Yes — PAGCOR licenses online operators. The minimum age is 21.
What is PAGCOR?
PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) is the state gambling regulator and operator in the Philippines.
Can foreign players gamble at Philippine sites?
It depends on the licence type. B2B operators based in the Philippines serve international markets; domestic licences serve Philippine residents.
Responsible Gambling in Philippines
Free support for gambling problems is available in the Philippines. Contact the National Council for Mental Health at 1553 (free). PAGCOR also operates a responsible gaming programme.