The Philippine gaming sector reported growth in 2025, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) reaching PHP396.14 billion, or $6.6 billion. The figure marked a 6.39 percent increase from PHP372.33 billion in 2024, driven by continued expansion in digital gaming.
Data from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation showed that online and electronic gaming led this rise. The segment, covering e-bingo, e-games, poker, and bingo operations, generated PHP201.12 billion, up 30.04 percent from PHP154.66 billion a year earlier.
“The e-games and online gaming segment accounted for 50.77 percent of total industry GGR,” said Alejandro H. Tengco. “It has overtaken licensed casinos as the largest GGR contributor.”
Online Segment Reshapes Market
The latest figures reflect a shift in how players engage with gaming services. Online platforms now generate more revenue than traditional casino venues, signaling a change in consumer habits and industry priorities.
Tengco addressed this transition directly, stating, “The increase in electronic gaming revenues shows how the industry has evolved.” He added, “Online gaming is no longer a supplementary segment but has now become the leading driver of overall GGR growth.”
Despite a strong annual performance, the online segment experienced temporary disruption in the third quarter. Regulators implemented changes that separated online gambling platforms from e-wallet services, affecting player access and payment processing.
Tengco explained that the adjustments aimed “to improve transaction traceability, protect players, and strengthen confidence in regulated online gaming,” noting that these measures formed part of broader regulatory oversight.
Land-Based Casinos Record Declines
While digital gaming expanded, land-based operations reported declining revenues. Licensed casinos generated PHP182.50 billion in 2025, reflecting a 9.58 percent decrease compared with PHP201.84 billion in the previous year.
PAGCOR-operated casinos posted a sharper drop. Their revenue fell by 20.95 percent year-on-year, reaching PHP12.52 billion.
Industry data indicates that the growth of online gaming offset these declines, preventing an overall contraction in the sector. The evolving balance between digital and physical operations continues to reshape the market.
Regulation and External Pressures
Regulators stressed the need for oversight as the market evolves. Tengco said, “The 2025 GGR performance underscores the importance of regulatory balance as the industry evolves.” He added, “Our objective is not simply to grow revenues, but to ensure that growth is sustainable, transparent, and compliant because of a stronger regulatory environment that supports the long-term stability of the gaming industry.”
Lawmakers also discussed tighter rules for online gambling during 2025, reflecting increased scrutiny.
External factors added pressure to the sector. Rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions affected travel and operating expenses for land-based casinos. Tengco said, “This is not a good time for everyone.” He added, “Gaming jurisdictions globally are feeling the impact of the oil crisis, and even more progressive countries like Singapore, Macau, and the United States are not spared.”
He said, “These external pressures are affecting not only gaming operators but also the local gaming industry stakeholders.”
Online gaming continued to expand despite these conditions, supporting overall industry performance.
Source:
“Philippines gaming revenues hit P396.14B in 2025”, tribune.net.ph, April 16, 2026
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