The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) said online gaming was one of the government's biggest revenue drivers this year, noting, however, that unregulated sites pose risks.

PAGCOR said it submitted a report to the House Committee on Games and Amusements, which states that the licensed online gaming sector earned P69 billion in license fees from January to July this year alone.

Of the total, P41 billion came from electronic games (E-Games) while P28 billion came from other online game offerings.

“Because of its huge potential, online gaming has become an important source of funds for our nation-building commitments, including PAGCOR’s support for education, health care, and community development,” PAGCOR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Tengco said.

Tengco said that in the first seven months of 2025, online gaming contributed P27.47 billion to nation-building, funding corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, including P14.72 billion for the Universal Health Care Law.

It will also help fund the construction of school buildings, socio-civic centers, wellness centers, and E-Learning hubs.

“Every peso we collect from the gaming sector translates to meaningful projects such as classrooms for our children, health programs for our people, and safe spaces for communities in times of calamity. This is how we ensure that gaming directly benefits Filipinos,” he said.

Tengco, however, warned of the growing threat of illegal online operators that entice players of all ages without safeguards.

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

Tengco vowed a stronger enforcement against illegal platforms.

“PAGCOR is committed to strengthening regulation and enforcement to ensure that only legitimate and properly monitored operators are allowed to operate,” he added.

PAGCOR PHOTO