For most of the 2010s and early 2020s, the Philippines was a major hub for offshore online gambling: PAGCOR licensed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), later renamed Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), to serve players outside the country. That model is over.
In July 2024 the President announced a ban on offshore gaming, followed by Executive Order No. 74. In October 2025 Congress made it permanent with the Anti-POGO Act of 2025 (Republic Act No. 12312). This page replaces our earlier Philippines license guide, which described the offshore model.
Philippines gambling licensing: key facts for 2026
| Item | Position in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Offshore gaming (POGO / IGL) | Banned — Republic Act No. 12312 (Anti-POGO Act of 2025) |
| Existing offshore licenses | Revoked by the Act |
| Penalties | 6–8 years and ₱300,000–₱15m (first offense), up to 12 years and ₱50m (third offense) |
| Enforcement | Executive Order No. 74; raids, deportations and asset forfeiture |
| Domestic online gaming | Licensed by PAGCOR for players in the Philippines |
| PAGCOR online GGR fee (from 1 Jan 2025) | 25% (integrated resort operators); 30% (other land-based licensees) |
| PAGCOR’s role | Regulator and licensor; its Casino Filipino chain is being privatized |
What the Anti-POGO Act prohibits
RA 12312 bans offshore gaming in and from the Philippines. Prohibited acts include:
- Establishing, operating or conducting offshore gaming;
- Accepting bets for offshore gaming operations;
- Acting as a POGO content or service provider;
- Creating or operating POGO hubs or sites;
- Introducing, using or possessing POGO equipment;
- Aiding or abetting these activities, including registering POGOs or providing false documents.
Penalties rise with repeat offenses, public officials face the maximum penalty and permanent disqualification, and buildings, equipment and proceeds used in violations are forfeited.
What PAGCOR still licenses
PAGCOR continues to license online gaming for players located in the Philippines under its domestic licensing framework, including eGames and inland online gaming operators. Domestic brands built on these licenses now lead the local market. From 1 January 2025, PAGCOR reduced its license fee on online gross gaming revenue to 25% for integrated resort operators and 30% for other land-based licensees.
Domestic licenses are not a route to international markets: they cover players in the Philippines only, under PAGCOR’s eligibility, technical and responsible gaming conditions. Confirm the current requirements directly with PAGCOR before planning a domestic launch.
Alternatives for international operators
Former offshore licensees and new operators targeting international players are relocating to jurisdictions that still license cross-border online gambling:
- Curaçao — CGA licensing under the LOK, with local presence requirements;
- Nevis — flat €28,000 annual fee, no relocation required;
- Malta — EU regulator, higher cost and substance;
- Isle of Man — low duty and 0% corporate tax for most e-gaming income.
Each license only covers markets where it is lawful to operate, so the target markets should decide the jurisdiction. Compare routes on our jurisdictions page.
How Gambling Consulting Expert can help
We compare licensing routes for your target markets, restructure the business into a jurisdiction that still licenses international operators, and prepare the new license application. Contact us.
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