Online gaming has emerged as a major contributor to government revenues this year, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), which also sounded the alarm over the growing threat of illegal gaming platforms targeting Filipino players.

In a report presented to the House Committee on Games and Amusements, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco revealed that licensed online gaming operators generated a staggering ₱69 billion in license fees from January to July 2025. Of this amount, ₱41 billion came from electronic games (E-Games), while ₱28 billion was earned from other online gaming formats.

“Online gaming has become an important source of funds for our nation-building commitments, including support for education, health care, and community development,” Tengco said.

Gaming Revenues Fuel Social Impact

Tengco emphasized that ₱27.47 billion from online gaming revenues was channeled into nation-building initiatives during the first seven months of the year. Notably, ₱14.72 billion was allocated to the Universal Health Care Law, while the rest supported PAGCOR’s flagship corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

These programs include the construction of school buildings, socio-civic centers, wellness facilities, and E-Learning hubs across the country.

“Every peso we collect from the gaming sector translates to meaningful projects—classrooms for our children, health programs for our people, and safe spaces for communities in times of calamity,” Tengco added.

Crackdown on Illegal Operators

Despite the sector’s strong performance, PAGCOR warned of the dangers posed by unregulated online gaming sites. Tengco noted that these illegal platforms not only siphon potential government revenues but also expose Filipino players—especially minors—to significant risks.

“These illegal sites not only deprive the government of much-needed revenues but also expose Filipino players to numerous risks,” he said.

To combat this, PAGCOR pledged to intensify its regulatory efforts and enforcement actions to ensure that only legitimate, properly monitored operators are allowed to operate in the country.

“PAGCOR is committed to strengthening regulation and enforcement,” Tengco affirmed, “to protect our citizens and preserve the integrity of the gaming industry.”