Three of the largest integrated resort‑casino operators in the Philippines have reiterated their commitment to legal compliance and responsible gaming, asserting that their online offerings remain firmly regulated under national laws. Their statement arrives amid heightened scrutiny of online gambling platforms by the national government, underlining the intensifying policy debate over the sector’s societal impact.
At the heart of the declaration are Solaire Resort, Newport World Resorts and Okada Manila. In coordinated announcements issued on Sunday, the operators emphasised that their online platforms are fully licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation and employ advanced technologies—such as geo‑fencing and IP filtering—to ensure access is restricted to users within authorised zones.
Officials at the casinos highlighted rigorous Know‑Your‑Customer protocols, including mandatory verification within 72 hours and stringent age‑gating mechanisms. The measures also extend to anti‑money‑laundering compliance, transparent gaming systems, and annual audits. Responsible‑gaming tools now form integral parts of platforms, enabling player self‑exclusion, deposit caps and time limits.
While presenting their case, the operators referenced ongoing concerns raised by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. regarding the welfare implications of online gambling, particularly its effects on vulnerable families. The Palace has reportedly weighed tighter regulation measures, including taxation reforms and curbs on influencer marketing for gambling.
PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco has voiced strong opposition to any outright ban, warning that it would drive users toward illegal offshore platforms—where no regulation, taxation or consumer protections exist. He pointed out that in 2024, PAGCOR collected PHP 50 billion in licensing and fees, predominantly from online operations. A ban, he cautioned, could eliminate a similar scale of government revenue, alongside risking thousands of jobs across the hospitality and service sectors.
Despite the economic rationale, critics remain vocal. Interior Assistant Secretary Florencio Valeriano argued that “no financial gain justifies the social toll of gambling, especially among the poor,” and cautioned that history has shown banning formal platforms only drives the industry underground.
Legal and tech experts have urged a balanced approach. In a detailed memo, attorney and consultant Tonet Quiogue urged policymakers to direct enforcement efforts at illicit operators rather than penalising regulated platforms. She warned that a blanket prohibition would severely undermine the state’s capacity to monitor and tax the sector effectively.
As part of its regulatory response, PAGCOR recently mandated the removal of outdoor advertising for gambling services, including billboards and in‑transit ads on public vehicles. The directive, issued on 7 July, sets a compliance deadline of 15 August and requires an audit of existing ads by 16 July. Only responsible‑gaming campaigns approved by PAGCOR may remain visible thereafter.
The casino operators reaffirmed that their promotional content and marketing materials undergo review by PAGCOR and the Advertising Standards Council, underscoring their broader compliance posture.
In the wake of this joint public statement, Cracow Manila, the city of Manila’s municipal regulators and local stakeholders, are expected to weigh in on the unfolding debate, as are lawmakers in Congress assessing policy interventions ranging from taxation adjustments to tighter influencer marketing controls.
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