The gambling industry has always been popular in the Philippines. It is a favored activity among Filipinos, and The industry attracts several tourists from China, Japan and South Korea. The industry is projected to hit $6.03 (over 350 billion pesos) in revenue by the end of 2025. 

The government has recently put laws and measures in place with the aim to combat illegal gambling. However, this still doesn’t seem to have had an impact on the industry’s rise. There are a number of key factors that contribute to this surge. 

Growth Drivers

One of the main drivers behind the growth of the Gambling industry in the Philippines was the rise of online gaming. Online gambling is a lot more convenient and accessible to both local and international players. It allows you to access your favorite games and experiences from your smartphone. The online gaming world provides a wide range of gambling experiences from table games like poker to new and immersive experiences. The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) provide services to foreign customers, particularly in China where gambling is heavily restricted. This was one of the ways the gambling industry was able to grow quickly. 

POGOs once ran under a legal framework that was designed to ensure that the industry was operating under strict guidelines. Like most other countries, operators are required to obtain licenses. In this case, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is responsible for this. POGOs had a significant contribution to the nation’s GDP. The taxes and fees collected from them provided an essential revenue stream for the government. And while this helped to boost the economy. It also led to many other issues including money laundering and human trafficking. Even though they have been important for the success of the gambling industry. POGOs are now illegal. 

Land-based casinos and integrated resorts have also helped to create a revenue stream for the government. Major urban centers like Manila and Cebu offer several gambling establishments that attract both locals and tourists. Resorts offer a wide range of entertainment options from luxury accommodations to dining experiences. This helps to generate even more revenue for the economy. 

Legal Crackdowns and the Regulatory Landscape

There have been many concerns raised on illegal gambling and issues that come with it like tax evasion, money laundering and exploitation within the industry. To address this the government implemented several legal measures that help to address concerns over illegal gambling. This led to the ban of all POGOs back in 2024. 

While land-based casinos are still able to run. They have been put under the microscope too. Authorities are seeking to ensure that establishments are complying with both local and international laws. Casinos are required to adhere to strict anti-money laundering measures as well as enforce responsible gambling practices. PAGCOR is playing an important role in enforcing these laws to ensure that the industry remains above board.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The gambling industry has caused many issues for the government. It’s also been a major contributor to the economy. The industry brings in millions of dollars of revenue each year. Casinos are then taxed which provides revenue to the government and goes towards building infrastructure, transport and even funding healthcare. This helps to boost the overall economic growth of the country. Larger-scale casino resorts also help to attract tourists and foreign investments. Tourists who visit these casinos will also be dining in restaurants, shopping in stores and buying tickets for other attractions. Therefore helping to build other industries including the entertainment and tourism sectors.

The gambling industry isn’t just helping to build revenue for the government. It’s also helping to boost the economy in other ways too. This includes job creation. The gambling industry in The Philippines supports thousands of jobs in various fields. This includes hospitality, security and technology. This is helping to reduce unemployment rates in the region. 

Challenges and Future Outlook

The country has shown impressive growth and is set for a surge in 2025. It still faces many challenges. The industry is likely to face a lot of competition now that the online gambling market is illegal. Other countries in Southeast Asia like Vietnam and Cambodia are starting to explore the potential of online gaming and casino resorts. Especially as these operators are attracting customers with new and exclusive offers like the Stake sign-up bonus. This could end up affecting the Philippines’ dominant position in the regional market. Especially as now online gambling is illegal in the region. 

There’s no way of knowing what the future holds for online gambling in the Philippines. Therefore the industry now needs to focus on its strengths which is its land-based establishments. Even without online casinos and POGOs, the gambling industry in the Philippines is still expected to thrive. As long as the industry remains flexible and adapts to both market and regulatory changes. It will continue to thrive, securing its place as a leading player in the global gambling market.