The Philippines remains one of Asia’s most active iGaming hubs, offering licensing opportunities for operators meeting strict compliance standards. While recent policy changes have reshaped the landscape, most notably the ban on POGOs/IGLs in late 2024, licensed platforms under PAGCOR and CEZA remain legal and lucrative.
This guide explains the legal framework, eligibility, licensing authorities, required documentation, and process for getting licensed in 2025.
Understanding Online Gambling Laws in the Philippines
Online gambling in the Philippines is regulated under two primary legal frameworks. Traditionally, this is how they worked:
- PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) traditionally regulates onshore and offshore gaming operations such as e-bingo, e-casino games, sports betting, poker, and other authorized electronic gaming.
- CEZA (Cagayan Economic Zone Authority) traditionally focuses on offshore gaming operators that target foreign players outside the Philippines.
A major policy shift in late 2024 banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) due to concerns over illegal practices. This means PAGCOR now focuses only on domestic-facing online platforms, while CEZA has shifted to catering to Filipinos while offering incentives to corporations. So now, this is how PAGCOR and CEZA work:
- PAGCOR regulates onshore gaming operations, such as e-bingo, e-casino games, sports betting, poker, and other authorized electronic gaming.
- CEZA regulates gaming within its jurisdiction, with the power to license Interactive Gaming and Land-based Gaming activities without securing a prior license from PAGCOR. It can also provide fiscal incentives to registered companies. CEZA’s Master Licensors act as the marketing and technical arms, assisting in monitoring the activities of foreign online gaming companies.
In short, the two frameworks have converged, with PAGCOR serving as the primary regulator. CEZA may still be a consideration if your business operates within its economic zone.
Who Can Apply for an Online Gambling License
Licenses are open to both local and foreign-owned companies, provided applicants:
- Registered as a corporation in the Philippines.
- Have no criminal record or pending gambling/fraud cases.
- Demonstrate financial stability and operational capacity.
- Maintain a physical office in the Philippines (for PAGCOR) or inside the Cagayan Special Economic Zone (for CEZA).
Corporate registration, tax compliance, and AML/KYC readiness are essential in all cases.
Required Documents and Compliance Standards
Applicants will likely need multiple licenses from PAGCOR or CEZA, depending on their operations and the types of games they offer. For instance, a business offering online poker must secure a Gaming License (GL) specifically for that game.
While requirements may vary depending on the specific license, here is what you commonly need for an initial application:
- Letter of intent addressed to the Chairman and CEO of PAGCOR
- Duly accomplished and notarized application
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Registration or its foreign equivalent
- Articles of Incorporation (AOI) and By-Laws duly stamped and received by the SEC
- To qualify, a company’s articles of incorporation and bylaws must list gaming as a primary business purpose (or have a board resolution if it’s secondary).
- It must have at least ₱100 million authorized capital stock with ₱25 million paid-up capital.
- Under the Foreign Investment Negative List, foreign ownership in gambling is capped at 40%, unless covered by a specific investment agreement with PAGCOR.
- Latest General Information Sheet (GIS) with beneficial ownership declaration page or its foreign equivalent
- Company overview and profile
- An organizational chart indicating the names of persons occupying the positions
- Business profile detailing the company’s business model, plan, and projections
- Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Plan (MTPP);
- Duly accomplished and notarized Personal Disclosure Sheet (PDS) (OGLD Form No. 1050) of authorized representative and key officers of the corporation
- Board Resolution or Secretary’s Certificate appointing Authorized Representative
- Declaration of Security Compliance Officer
- BIR Certificate of Registration
- Result of the evaluation issued by an accredited probity checker of the OGLD
- Proof of payment of the Application Fee
You will likely also need a license to own and possess gaming machines and to hire employees specifically for the gaming industry. Contact Triple i Consulting for expert guidance with your application and to ensure you obtain all the legal documents required to operate your business.
Step-by-Step Process for Securing Your License
- Determine Your Market and License Type
Decide whether you will serve domestic players (PAGCOR) or target an offshore market (CEZA). - Register Your Business Entity
Incorporate with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and secure all local permits and BIR registration. - Check which Specific Licenses You Need from PAGCOR or CEZA
PAGCOR and CEZA issue different licenses depending on the type of games or services you plan to offer. Gather all the required documents for those licenses. - Submit an Application to the Relevant Authority
Provide the required forms, documents, and applicable fees to PAGCOR or CEZA. - Undergo Evaluation and Inspection
Regulators will assess your financial capacity, technical systems, and compliance readiness. This may include site visits and software testing. - Pay Licensing Fees and Performance Bonds
Once approved, settle the necessary payments, including annual license fees, regulatory fees, and refundable bonds. - Launch Operations Under Continuous Oversight
After receiving your license, maintain compliance through regular audits, quarterly reports, and timely renewals.
Final Thoughts
Getting an online gambling license in the Philippines in 2025 is achievable for operators who understand the evolving legal landscape and are prepared to meet stringent compliance standards. While the ban on POGOs has reshaped the industry, both PAGCOR and CEZA continue to provide legitimate licensing routes for qualified applicants. Contact Triple i Consulting for expert assistance with your application, ensuring a smooth process and full compliance with strict gambling regulations.
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 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
