After the 2024 Executive Order No. 74 ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), many wonder whether gambling, especially online gambling, is still legal in the Philippines. The short answer is yes, but with tighter regulations. However, those who can navigate these regulations can potentially turn high profits. Despite the POGO ban, PAGCOR projects a 17% increase in gambling revenues for 2025, thanks to a rise in electronic gambling revenue.
Below, we explain what legal gambling is, what a PAGCOR license is, and how you can start a legitimate gaming business.
What is Legal Gambling
Gambling in the Philippines is legal, but it is heavily regulated. Unlike in some countries where gambling is completely banned or fully liberalized, the Philippine government allows it under strict oversight. The primary law governing the industry is Presidential Decree No. 1869, which created the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
Legal gambling covers both land-based and online operations. However, each type of activity (whether casino gaming, sports betting, or e-gaming) has its own set of rules, licensing requirements, and compliance standards. Running a gambling business without the proper authorization is considered illegal and can result in serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Who Regulates Gambling: PAGCOR and CEZA Explained
Two main regulators oversee gambling activities in the country:
- PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation): A government-owned corporation under the Office of the President. PAGCOR regulates and operates land-based casinos, electronic gaming sites, bingo parlors, and online gambling operators licensed to serve local players.
- CEZA (Cagayan Economic Zone Authority): Following the 2024 nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), CEZA is no longer authorized to issue licenses for offshore gaming. CEZA now issues licenses for businesses operating under its jurisdiction and catering only to Filipino gamblers.
Together, PAGCOR and CEZA ensure that gambling businesses comply with Philippine law, protect players, and generate revenue for the government.
Both regulators operate in similar ways, though PAGCOR serves as the primary authority, and your choice will largely depend on the region in which you plan to operate. If you are in the Cagayan Economic Zone, consider applying with CEZA. For the rest of the Philippines, you should obtain the proper licenses from PAGCOR.
Types of Legal Gambling in the Philippines
The Philippine gambling industry is diverse. Legal options include:
- Land-Based Casinos
- E-Games and Online Gaming
- Bingo Operations
- Poker Games
- Sports Betting
- Lottery and Sweepstakes
- Numeric Games
- Other Activities PAGCOR May Decide On in the Future
This variety makes the Philippines a major player in Asia’s gaming landscape, attracting local enthusiasts and international operators.
Licenses You Need to Operate a Gaming Business
The type of license you need depends on the scope of your business. Common permits include:
- Business Permits and Clearances—This includes registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), mayor’s permit, and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) registration. Registration is mandatory for all businesses in the Philippines, including gambling enterprises.
- Licenses issued by PAGCOR (often called a PAGCOR License): PAGCOR issues various licenses. Depending on your business operations and the games you’ll operate, you’ll need several of them.
- Licenses issued by CEZA (often called a CEZA Gambling License): CEZA offers many licenses, and the ones you’ll need depend on your business operations and the games you will operate.
- Special Permits – Depending on your operations, you may also need certifications for hiring foreign employees or handling online payment systems.
Gambling regulations in the Philippines are strict. Operating without the proper licenses can result in fines, suspension of operations, or even criminal charges. Contact Triple i Consulting to secure all the necessary legal documents and ensure full compliance with PAGCOR regulations.
Steps to Starting a Legitimate Gambling Business
Launching a gaming business in the Philippines involves careful planning and strict compliance with regulations. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
- Determine Your Business Model – Decide whether you want to operate a casino, online platform, bingo hall, or sportsbook.
- Register Your Company – Register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), local government units (LGUs), the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and any other required government agencies.
- Apply for the Appropriate Licenses – Submit the required documents to PAGCOR or CEZA, depending on your market. Requirements vary based on the specific license, but typically include:
- Letter of intent addressed to PAGCOR
- Notarized application form
- SEC registration and corporate documents (Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws)
- Latest General Information Sheet with beneficial ownership declaration
- Company overview and business profile, including organizational chart and business plan
- Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Plan
- Notarized Personal Disclosure Sheets of key officers
- Board resolution appointing an authorized representative
- Security compliance declaration
- BIR Certificate of Registration
- Probity evaluation results from an accredited checker
- Proof of application fee payment
- Additional documents as required based on business operations
- Ensure Compliance With Taxation – Gambling operators are subject to corporate income tax, value-added tax, and gaming-specific levies.
- Set Up Your Operations – Invest in secure systems, staff training, and responsible gaming measures.
- Maintain Ongoing Compliance – Renew licenses, file regular reports, and follow anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.
Following these steps allows you to operate legally while building a sustainable and profitable gaming enterprise.
Final Thoughts
So, is gambling legal in the Philippines? The answer is yes, but only if you follow the rules. With PAGCOR and CEZA serving as regulators, the country has established a framework that allows gambling to flourish while protecting the public and ensuring government oversight. Contact Triple i Consulting for professional assistance in registering your company and securing all the legal documents you need to operate your gambling company.
Are You Registering a Gambling Business in the Philippines?
Setting up a gambling business in the Philippines can be challenging due to strict requirements and regulations. Missing a document or failing to comply with industry rules can result in costly fines or even the suspension of your operations.
That’s where Triple i Consulting comes in. Our team of experienced lawyers and accountants provides comprehensive support for your business registration, so you don’t have to stress over the paperwork. We’ll handle the permits and renewals so you can focus on what matters—running your business and achieving financial success.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experts:
- Fill out the form below
- Call us at: +63 (02) 8540-9623
- Send an email to: info@tripleiconsulting.com
