PAGCOR Commits to Combating Illegal Gambling Amid Growing Legal Market Contributions
PAGCOR’s Commitment to Fighting Illegal Gambling
Alejandro Tengco, the chairman and CEO of PAGCOR, has announced a renewed effort to curb the influence of offshore and unauthorized gambling operations in the Philippines. This initiative follows recent figures revealing that licensed gambling platforms have contributed approximately $1.20 billion in license fees as of July 2025.
Economic Impact of Regulated Gambling
Tengco emphasized the significant positive impact that the gambling industry, particularly regulated online gaming, has on the country’s economy. Despite ongoing debates and challenges within the legal framework, the licensed sector continues to be a vital source of government revenue.
Calls have been made to President Bongbong Marcos to impose a blanket ban on gambling activities. However, many experts and industry observers warn that such measures might be counterproductive, potentially pushing players towards illegal venues outside the country.
Research indicates that many gamblers themselves are against a total ban, worried that this would empower illegal casinos. Tengco shares this perspective and highlights the benefits gained from legalized gambling operations.
He stated, “Online gaming holds enormous potential and has become a crucial funding source for national development projects, including PAGCOR’s contributions to education, healthcare, and community improvements.” He pointed out that revenue from the legal sector helps supply schools with essential resources and enhances healthcare services nationwide.
Addressing the Threat of Illegal Gambling
Despite the successes of the regulated market, illegal gambling remains a significant challenge. Tengco stressed the need to eliminate these unlicensed operations, which not only siphon off government income but also pose serious risks to Filipino players.
He remarked, “Illegal gambling platforms undermine lawful businesses and expose players to numerous dangers.” He added that unclear regulatory policies sometimes enable the black market to flourish.
PAGCOR reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight and enforcement actions. The goal is to ensure that only legitimate, well-regulated operators can serve the Filipino public, thereby protecting the industry’s integrity and the welfare of its participants.
