Good Morning. Benefits versus costs. The Philippines continues to generate significant revenue from its online gaming segment. But certain elements in the government and society are aiming to shut it down entirely. The head of the nation’s gaming regulator (PAGCOR), Alejandro H. Tengco purely points to the data on GGR growth, while also highlighting improvements to its regulatory function – better focused as it decouples from Casino Filipino. Looking to Thailand, the Shinawatra dynasty has again suffered a blow, with casino proponent Thaksin Shinawatra now going to jail, likely the last nail in the coffin for the nation’s casino aspirations.
What you need to know
- PAGCOR drives decoupling amid $7B gaming growth in 2025, pursuing casino privatization to focus on regulation and maintain industry integrity.
- Thailand’s Supreme Court has sentenced former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to serve one year in jail.
On the radar
- MGM CEO laments delayed casino licence as Dubai resort progresses.
- Indian Supreme Court to hear all petitions challenging online gaming law.
- Shin Hwa World rebrands Landing to LES A Casino.
- Philippines and Cambodia vow to combat cybercrime together.
AGB Intelligence
PHILIPPINES
GGR target of $7B for 2025: PAGCOR Chairman
While the Philippines has been enduring some controversy over online gaming, it hasn’t stopped the sector from continuing to produce impressive returns. The head of the nation’s gaming regulator highlighted the significant growth the gaming sector overall has achieved, and the proof of contribution by the eGames segment, driving up estimates for 2025 GGR to $7 billion. At the same time, PAGCOR aims to focus solely on its regulatory function, pushing the eventual privatization of the Casino Filipino venues.
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