The largest casino operators in the Philippines are working together to respond to proposals to ban locally licensed online gambling. They say this could weaken consumer protections and push players to use legal PH online casinos based outside the country.
The debate shows two sides: lawmakers want stricter controls, while industry leaders believe regulation is better than a complete ban.
Operators Defend Regulated Online Play
Solaire Resort, Newport World Resorts, and Okada Manila, three of the country’s largest integrated resorts, have said they oppose the proposed ban. They stress that their online gambling services are licensed and regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).
In a joint statement, the operators said their online platforms are extensions of their physical casinos and must follow current compliance standards.
The companies also highlighted safeguards like identity checks and anti-money laundering rules. They also provide responsible gaming tools, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion programs. Age limits are enforced using geo-fencing and IP filtering, so only eligible players in the Philippines can use their services. Industry leaders say these steps show their commitment to responsible gaming and make local platforms different from offshore sites.
Casino executives also pointed out that online gambling brings in tax revenue and supports jobs. They said a ban probably would not stop online play but could move players to offshore operators, which might hurt oversight and government income.
Offshore Sites Stand to Gain
If lawmakers ban domestic online gambling, some industry experts think more people will use offshore platforms. These sites, licensed in places like Malta or Curaçao, already attract Filipino players with more games, casino bonuses, and mobile features. Without local choices, offshore operators could gain a bigger share of the market.
Critics of the ban say offshore casinos could be risky for consumers because they are not under Philippine law or PAGCOR’s rules. Players on these sites may have fewer ways to resolve disputes and less transparency in transactions. Some gamblers, however, prefer offshore platforms for their customer service, advanced banking options, and reliability compared to local sites.
Some analysts warn that banning licensed local platforms could make offshore competitors stronger, make enforcement harder, and reduce the government’s ability to monitor gambling. The shift could also hurt efforts to promote responsible gaming, since offshore sites do not have to follow the same rules as Philippine operators.
Legislative Debate Intensifies
Lawmakers who support the ban say online gambling causes addiction, fraud, and social problems, especially for vulnerable Filipinos. Officials argue that limiting access protects communities, even at the cost of tax revenue. Lawmakers are discussing proposals such as raising the legal betting age, banning e-wallet payments for gambling, and tightening advertising rules.
Industry leaders say regulation is a balanced approach that allows government oversight and protects consumers while bringing in revenue. They warn that a ban would likely push online gambling to offshore sites, which could take away the benefits of a regulated system.
This debate is part of a bigger policy discussion in the Philippines. Casinos are seen as helping tourism and the economy, but online gambling is still a political issue.
The outcome of current legislative efforts will influence whether the Philippines maintains a regulated digital environment or sees increased activity by offshore operators.