PAGCOR Tightens Its Online Gambling Oversight in the Philippines

New Requirements During a Slowdown

B2B suppliers and Special Class BPOs face stricter rules. Updated transition guidelines also cover relationships with accredited Gaming System Administrators. These measures arrive against a weaker financial backdrop. GGR reached PHP 87.60 billion in Q1 2026, down 15.87% from the same period last year. The following quarter recorded PHP 88.13 billion, representing a YoY decline of 20.33%, and prompting a review of existing arrangements.

Additional changes address:

• cashback programmes and rebates;
• the framework covering offences and penalties;
• consistent standards across authorised businesses.

Illegal Competition and Payment Controls

Alongside this reassessment, the authority is also stepping up efforts to curb unlicensed businesses. Such firms avoid compliance costs while targeting the same customers as legitimate operators. Tackling that imbalance requires cooperation with law enforcement, financial institutions and technology companies. Payment providers are also involved in efforts to stop illicit activity.

Transaction oversight has become particularly important following the removal of e-wallet links from gambling applications. PAGCOR has consequently amended accreditation procedures for gateways and channels. These requirements align with policies governing institutions regulated by the Central Bank of the Philippines. The revisions bring financial intermediaries more firmly into the wider supervisory framework.

AI Adoption and Consumer Safeguards

Artificial intelligence presents another challenge for this broader approach. It could improve fraud detection and compliance monitoring, but also enable more sophisticated scams. Ms Fernandez therefore stressed the need for rules that keep pace with technological developments. Alongside these concerns, PAGCOR is strengthening registration procedures, identity checks and the National Database of Restricted Persons.

Practical support forms another part of consumer protection. In May, the authority partnered with the Seagulls Flock Organisation to launch a countrywide problem gambling helpline. This service operates around the clock. It complements measures designed to prevent restricted individuals from accessing betting platforms.

New Zealand’s Regulatory Model

These challenges also explain the interest in approaches adopted overseas. Ms Fernandez highlighted New Zealand’s plans to launch a regulated online casino sector. At the time of her remarks, the country expected to issue up to 15 licences by the end of 2026. Its proposed framework provides a reference as jurisdictions consider how to combine technological oversight with public safeguards.