The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has characterized recent revenue softness as a necessary consequence of strengthening digital gaming safeguards rather than a sign of industry weakness, according to a press release issued Wednesday.
Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco told delegates at G2E Asia at the Philippines 2025 in Pasay City that third-quarter revenue declines stemmed directly from enhanced payment controls designed to improve long-term market integrity. The regulatory overhaul included delinking e-wallets and restricting certain payment channels to strengthen player protection and anti-money laundering compliance.
“In recent months, most of you are aware that our industry has confronted severe headwinds … These reforms inevitably have short-term impacts that are necessary because we cannot build a modern digital gaming ecosystem on foundations that do not fully meet global integrity and compliance standards.”
Alejandro H. Tengco
The transition to tighter payment controls prompted operators and players to recalibrate their practices, resulting in softer revenues in the latter part of the third quarter. PAGCOR emphasized the measures are essential to improve traceability, reinforce anti-money laundering protections, and curb illicit financial activity across the Philippines’ expanding digital gaming sector.
The payment reforms form part of a broader responsible gaming framework PAGCOR has implemented throughout 2025. Licensed operators must now integrate responsible gaming tools including self-exclusion options and betting limits to help players manage gambling habits more sustainably.
Additional safeguards include prohibiting the use of credit cards and cryptocurrencies for betting, measures Tengco said recognize “the risks of over-borrowing and impulsive behavior.” PAGCOR has expanded support systems through partnerships with organizations such as the Seagulls Flock Organization to establish a 24-hour helpline, train Responsible Gaming Ambassadors, and accredit rehabilitation centers.
Advertising practices have undergone significant reforms following PAGCOR’s partnership with the Ad Standards Council in July, leading to the removal of gambling advertisements from public spaces and stricter standards for marketing materials.
“These efforts reflect PAGCOR’s long-term goal of cultivating a more secure, transparent, and internationally aligned gaming environment,” Tengco said. “The future of gaming will demand regulatory agility, industry cooperation, and a shared commitment to integrity, and players should always feel that their safety and well-being remain at the core of our policies.”
