Philippines posts P215 billion in gross gaming revenue in first half

The Philippines’ gaming industry recorded P215 billion in gross revenues during the first half of 2025, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) said in a report by Philippine News Agency.

Speaking at the Philippine Hotel Connect 2025 in Pasay City, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said licensed casinos within the so-called integrated resorts or IRs across the country generated PHP93.36 billion out of the total gross gaming revenues (GGR).

Of this, PHP16 billion was remitted to PAGCOR as license fees, helping fund government social programs and economic initiatives.

Integrated resorts are multi-use properties consisting of hotel, retail, dining, and recreation facilities, including casinos licensed by PAGCOR.

Beyond generating revenue for the government, Tengco said, IRs are a vital component in positioning the Philippines as a competitive tourism destination.

In the same forum, PAGCOR Assistant Vice President Ma. Vina Claudette Oca said more IR projects are set for completion in the next five years in Metro Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Boracay.

“With these projects, more non-gaming and hospitality facilities will further boost tourism and economic growth,” she said.

Kevin Tan, president and CEO of Alliance Global Group, said Megaworld Corp. intends to invest “almost USD2 billion” in expanding its integrated resort developments, with two underway in Boracay and Cebu.

“In any integrated resort, one of the biggest requirements of PAGCOR is for us to build luxury hotel rooms. So, we're committed to doing that. Part of our investments also will be going to other components of tourism, like entertainment,” he said.

Alongside strengthening the industry, PAGCOR would ensure that gaming in the country is conducted “ethically, transparently, and responsibly,” Tengco said.

Earlier this month, gambling ads were removed from areas with minors, and a ban on prime-time TV gaming ads between 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. is forthcoming.

“These are all part of a broader effort to reposition gaming within the proper boundaries so that it becomes regulated entertainment and not a reckless distraction,” he said.