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The Philippines has emerged as a major gaming hub. The country boasts a booming gaming industry. This growth is a result of its young demographic and robust digital landscape. Projections suggest that this niche will generate up to $865.60 million in revenue by 2029. So, it is unsurprising that gambling operators are flocking to this pearl of the Orient seas. But, to tap into this market, it’s important to learn to navigate its legal landscape.
Learn how to do this in this guide.
The Republic of the Philippines has strict laws on betting. These laws are overseen by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. Also known as PAGCOR, this Corporation was set up in 1977 by Presidential Decree No. 1869 and regulates gambling activities in the country. It also issues all the necessary paperwork for all types of betting.
Gambling licensees in the Philippines enjoy several benefits:
A gambling license is essential for online casino and sportsbook businesses. It makes sure that gambling (betting) follows strict rules for fairness and transparency. This permit also protects operators from legal risks like fines and lawsuits.
PAGCOR ensures strict rules and oversight. It ensures operators follow the law, building trust with players and stakeholders.
Philippine licensees enjoy lower taxes compared to other locations. This support encourages investment and drives industry growth.
The paperwork allows online casino and sportsbook companies to offer online casinos, sports betting, and e-gaming. This allows them to serve a wide range of players.
The Philippines' strategic Southeast Asian location is a gateway to global markets. It empowers licensees to expand their company and enjoy global recognition.
Here's an overview of the different types of gambling regulated by Phillipine's PAGCOR.
PAGCOR regulates bingo games—a very popular game in the country. Operators must follow strict rules for fairness, payouts, and player safety. Bingo registers sales support the local economy.
PAGCOR oversees online casinos where people can play slots, blackjack, roulette, and poker. Operators in the Philippines need a PAGCOR online gaming license to operate. They must meet strict rules to ensure fair play.
This involves betting on sports like basketball and football. PAGCOR registers operators to offer sports betting, ensuring fairness, integrity, and responsible gaming.
This category includes operators regulated by authorities that offer live betting event feeds. It ensures bettors have access to legitimate sports betting platforms.
Here are all the agencies that control online gaming in the country:
PAGCOR is the main regulatory authority for gambling activities in the Philippines. It oversees and regulates casinos, bingo parlors, and e-games nationwide. PAGCOR’s mandate includes:
Managed by PAGCOR, the OGL regulates Philippines offshore gaming operators (POGOs). These operators provide online gaming services to foreign players. Its responsibilities include:
The PCSO operates national lotteries and other number games. Its primary functions are:
Philracom regulates and supervises horse racing in the country. Its key functions include:
GAB oversees professional sports and allied activities to combat illegal gambling. Its functions include:
These authorities ensure that gambling and related activities in the country are well-regulated.
To get an online gaming license Philippines, applicants must meet these requirements.
Applicants must submit a letter of intent to PAGCOR’s Chairman. They also need a signed application form and proof of SEC registration. Other documents needed include articles of incorporation and a general information sheet. Applicants will also need to submit the company’s overview or profile. The applicant must have an authorized capital stock of at least ₱100,000,000 and a paid-up capital of at least ₱25,000,000.
Gaming sites can only occupy up to 25,000 square meters, with certain areas excluded. Applicants must provide a lease contract or ownership certificate and local government approval.
Before starting operations, a gaming provider must post a performance bond. They must also have certifications for gaming system integrity and Anti-Money Laundering compliance. Applicants must pass a pre-operational inspection and follow responsible gaming standards.
The steps below will help you get a Philippines online casino license.
Apply with all relevant paperwork to PAGCOR. This includes business details, financial statements, and proof of regulatory compliance.
PAGCOR will review your financial history, business operations, and key personnel. They’ll conduct background checks to ensure integrity and legal compliance.
PAGCOR will inspect your facilities, systems, and operations on-site. They’ll audit to verify regulatory compliance. They also want to assess the security and fairness of gaming activities.
Based on the evaluations, PAGCOR will either grant the authorization or not. They can also recommend changes to meet regulatory standards.
Apply for renewal before your PAGCOR gaming license expires. Submit updated documents and undergo re-evaluation to ensure continued compliance and operational integrity.
InteliumLaw offers expert legal services to help businesses succeed in the international market. We help bookmakers get relevant paperwork to operate in the Philippines. Our experienced team guides you through the licensing process, ensuring regulatory compliance. But that’s not all. We also offer continued support to help you unlock the market’s full potential.
Get in touch!
The cost varies depending on the type of registration and its requirements. Contact us at InteliumLaw to find out the cost of a PAGCOR license online gaming application.
The licensing process can take about a month. This timeframe depends on the completeness of the application and regulatory compliance.
No. You need a bank account to get a PAGCOR license. It’s part of the financial and regulatory compliance checks.
Gambling licenses may vary in validity, but you generally have to renew them on an annual basis. Contact us at InteliumLaw. We can help you find out how long your PAGCOR license online casino application is valid.
Yes, non-residents can own gambling operations in the country. However, they must follow local laws and regulations.
The accumulated experience and tracking of future changes in this area allow us to be proactive
for our clients and develop the most adapted business structures to modern conditions.
By submitting this form, you hereby authorize Inteliumlaw to process your information for the purpose of addressing your inquiry. You retain the right to revoke this consent at any point. For further details, please review our Privacy Policy.
The accumulated experience and tracking of future changes in this area allow us to be proactive
for our clients and develop the most adapted business structures to modern conditions.
By submitting this form, you hereby authorize Inteliumlaw to process your information for the purpose of addressing your inquiry. You retain the right to revoke this consent at any point. For further details, please review our Privacy Policy.
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