PAGCOR License

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is a state corporation in the Philippines responsible for regulating and developing the country’s gambling industry.

Created to oversee the gambling sector, PAGCOR combines both regulatory and operator functions, making a substantial contribution to the Philippine economy and to a range of social projects.

The History of Establishment

PAGCOR was established in 1976 under Presidential Decree No. 1067-A, during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos. Its initial purpose was to bring order to the gambling industry and generate revenue for state needs. Since 1986, the corporation has been given broader authority, including the operation of its own casinos, which made it unique among gambling regulators worldwide.

Licensing System

PAGCOR has developed a strict licensing system for private operators. Companies wishing to open a casino or launch online games undergo an assessment of their financial stability, reputation and technical capability. Licenses are issued for a fixed period of time with a mandatory requirement to follow all transparency and security regulations.

Financial Oversight

The corporation closely monitors financial activity in the gambling industry. PAGCOR has introduced monitoring systems to prevent money laundering and tax evasion. Operators are required to submit regular reports on their revenue and large transactions, which ensures a high level of oversight.

Protection of Players’ Rights

PAGCOR places a strong focus on the protection of player rights. It enforces fair standards of gambling, transparent payouts and the proper handling of complaints. The corporation also supports responsible gaming programs, including self exclusion options and assistance for people dealing with gambling addiction.

Operator Requirements

The main requirements for gambling operators include:

• A minimum authorised capital.
• Operation of certified equipment.
• Regular financial reports.
• Programs for the prevention of problem gambling.
• Security and data-protection systems.

PAGCOR closes unprofitable casinos.

Technical Standards

All slot machines, software and online platforms undergo mandatory certification. PAGCOR works with international agencies to ensure that all equipment meets global quality and safety standards.

Combat Against Illegal Gambling

PAGCOR actively combats illegal gambling operations. The corporation conducts raids and inspections together with law enforcement, shutting down underground casinos and unlicensed online platforms.

Economic Influence

PAGCOR makes a substantial contribution to the Philippine economy. A share of the revenue from its own casinos and a part of the profits from the licensing fees is directed toward funding social programs such as the construction of schools, hospitals and infrastructure projects. In 2023, the corporation transferred more than 50 billion pesos to the national budget, this amounts to roughly 900 million US dollars.

On 31 January 2025, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) reported a record profit of 112 billion Philippine pesos (₱), equivalent to £1.54 billion / €1.84 billion / $1.92 billion, for 2024, driven by continued growth in the online gambling sector.

Sanction System

For violations of the law, operators face the following sanctions:

• Fines
• Suspension or revocation of their license
• Confiscation of equipment
• Criminal prosecution in cases of serious breaches

On 2 March 2025, PAGCOR ordered a licensee to stop sponsoring an online show featuring “almost naked” women.

International Cooperation

PAGCOR maintains ties with international regulators and takes part in global gambling conferences. This helps the corporation to adopt best practices from all over the world and adapt them to local conditions.

Online Gambling Regulation

With the growing popularity of online gaming, PAGCOR has introduced dedicated rules for internet casinos. Operators must protect player data, use certified software and follow strict cybersecurity standards. The Philippines has become one of Asia’s leaders in online gambling regulation.

13 February 2025, MANILA, Philippines. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has identified a total of 276 illegal gambling websites. Some of these platforms are linked to the now-banned Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

Responsibilities and Development

Social responsibility is an important part of PAGCOR’s mission. The corporation requires operators to implement measures that prevent the access of minors to gambling content and to provide support for players struggling with addiction. PAGCOR also monitors the introduction of new technologies, ensuring they are safe to use.

Policy on Staff

PAGCOR provides training for gambling industry staff, including courses on identifying problem behaviour and preventing fraud. This helps raise the professionalism of employees and improves service quality.

Transparency of Operations

The corporation regularly publishes reports on its activities, including data on revenue, social contributions and enforcement measures. This strengthens the trust of investors and the general public.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) plans to provide the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) with financial grants totalling 300 million Philippine pesos.

Development Prospects

In the future, PAGCOR plans to expand its presence in the online sector, strengthen oversight of new technologies and increase its contribution to social projects. The corporation aims to maintain its position as a leading gambling regulator in the Asian region.

PAGCOR: the gross gaming revenue (GGR) from the electronic gaming segment could reach 2.8 billion US dollars in 2025.

Conclusion

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation plays a key role in the development of the Philippine gambling industry. By combining the functions of both regulator and operator, PAGCOR ensures steady sector growth, attracts investment and supports social initiatives, maintaining a balance between economic benefit and public interests.