Better Collective Q4 2023 – a year of growth and transformation

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), the state gaming regulator and operator, has issued 40 licences to rebranded offshore gaming operators, now termed as Internet Gaming Licensees (IGL).  

According to a report of philstar.com, PAGCOR has granted nine provisional licences to these operators. This rebranding marks a shift from the previously used term "Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators" (POGOs). 

This move follows the implementation of the “Internet Gaming Licensing Regulations” which took effect on July 12, 2023. These regulations require all POGOs to reapply for licences under the new framework to ensure compliance with updated standards. The revision aims to address persistent controversies and regulatory challenges associated with the previous POGO framework, particularly regarding the hiring practices of foreign workers. 

The rebranding was officially announced in October 2023 by PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco. The new term, Internet Gaming Licensees, reflects PAGCOR's efforts to modernize and streamline the regulation of offshore gaming operations. 

Despite the controversies, offshore gaming operations remain a significant part of the Philippine gaming industry. In 2023, these operations generated Php3.15 billion (€50 million), accounting for 4.31 percent of PAGCOR’s total gaming revenues of Php79.37 billion (€1.26 billion). The industry achieved of P285.27 billion in 2023 (€4.5 billion), surpassing pre-pandemic levels, according to PAGCOR. 

The agency’s issuance of 40 licences to rebranded Internet Gaming Licensees represents a significant regulatory update aimed at improving the governance of offshore gaming operators. With the implementation of revised regulations and the rebranding initiative, PAGCOR is poised to enhance the integrity and profitability of the Philippine gaming industry. 

Last month, PAGCOR said it has a significant surge in its first-quarter income for 2024, reaching PHP25.24 billion (€401million), marking a 42.57 percent increase compared to the same period last year.   

Online gambling regulations across the European Union (EU) make up a diverse patchwork of regulatory frameworks, reflecting the varying socio-cultural contexts and public policy objectives of each member state. These national regulatory systems must, however, comply with overarching EU law as determined by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU).

Impact of European Elections

The regulatory frameworks for online gambling in the The EU has the authority to introduce common rules for online gambling, although achieving political consensus on this issue can be challenging. EU elections may shift the balance of power and influence regulatory policy directions. A political group prioritizing consumer protection and public health might push for stricter regulations and enhanced enforcement mechanisms. Conversely, a group focused on economic growth and innovation might advocate for more liberal regulatory frameworks, potentially easing restrictions and encouraging market expansion.

EU elections also affect the interpretation and enforcement of existing EU laws related to online gambling. Changes in the political landscape can lead to shifts in the composition of the CJEU, potentially influencing its rulings on the compliance of national regulatory frameworks with EU law. These judicial decisions play a crucial role in shaping the regulatory environment across member states.

The results of EU elections can indirectly affect the online gambling industry through broader economic policies. A pro-business EU stance might result in policies that favour the growth and competitiveness of the online gambling sector, while a consumer-centric approach could lead to more stringent regulations aimed at protecting gamblers and reducing the risks associated with online gambling.

This table here provides a concise overview of the online gambling regulations in various EU countries.

In countries like Austria and Finland, online gambling is largely monopolized. Austria has limited options for private operators, maintaining tight control over online casino gaming. Similarly, , ensuring state control over the industry.

Several countries have opted for strict licensing systems to regulate online gambling. Belgium requires online gaming operators to partner with existing land-based casinos and adhere to stringent licensing requirements. Denmark, Estonia, and Italy also maintain regulated markets where operators must obtain licenses to offer online gambling services.

Other countries have legalized online gambling but enforce specific regulatory frameworks. Bulgaria allows online gambling but requires operators to obtain a licence from another EU country. Croatia, Greece, Latvia, and Lithuania have established their licensing systems to regulate the market. Malta is a notable hub for online gaming, with a highly regulated environment and licenses issued by the Malta Gaming Authority.

Some EU countries have a mixed approach. Germany has partially legalized online gambling with strict regulations and licensing requirements. Poland operates a state monopoly on certain gambling activities, with partial legalization and stringent regulations for online gambling.

In contrast, several countries have stringent restrictions or outright bans on online casino gaming. Cyprus only permits sports betting, making other forms of online casino games illegal. France allows sports betting and poker but bans online casinos. Luxembourg has a blanket ban on online casino gaming.

The UK land-based gambling sector has faced significant challenges in recent years due to business inactivity during periods of COVID-19 restrictions and rising operating costs. As a result, many venues have closed, impacting local communities through the loss of jobs and decreased economic activity. The government hopes that these will help to revitalize the sector while ensuring adequate protections are in place for consumers.

In May 2023, the government initiated a regulatory reform program known as the ‘smarter regulation programme’. The aim of this programme is to enhance regulation and guidance for businesses, ensuring clarity, proportionality, and the removal of unnecessary burdens that could stifle innovation and growth.

As part of this initiative, the t (DCMS) released a white paper in April 2023. This document outlined the government’s plans to modernize the regulation of the gambling sector, with a particular focus on land-based gambling. The white paper proposed several key measures to update the outdated currently applied to the sector.

Between 26 July and 4 October 2023, the DCMS conducted a public consultation on these measures. After analyzing the evidence submitted, the government has decided to implement several measures:

• Relaxation of casino rules: This includes allowing 1968 Act casinos to increase their number of gaming machines to 80 if they meet the size requirements of a Small 2005 Act casino. Smaller 1968 Act casinos will be allowed more than 20 machines, on a pro-rata basis commensurate to their size, and betting will be permitted in all casinos.
• Machines in arcades and bingo halls: A 2:1 ratio of Category B to Category C and D gaming machines will be allowed in arcades and bingo halls, implemented on a device type basis.
• Cashless payments on gaming machines: The prohibition on the direct use of debit cards on gaming machines will be removed, subject to the introduction of appropriate player protection measures.
• Introduction of a legal age limit of 18 for certain gaming machines: To protect children and young people, anyone under the age of 18 will be banned from playing low stake Category D slot-style machines that pay out cash.
• Licensing authority fees: The maximum chargeable premises licensing fees will be increased by 15 percent.

The consultation received 87 responses from a wide variety of stakeholders, including researchers, adult gaming centre operators, bingo operators, campaign organizations, casino operators, individuals, local authorities, pub representatives, and responses from the wider gambling industry.

The government’s response provides non-remote gambling operators with clear notice of the intention to introduce the measures set out within this government response. Following the publication of this response, six regulations will be laid before Parliament.

The government is committed to ensuring that the regulation of land-based gambling is fit for the modern age and is proportionate to the risk associated with the gambling products on offer. However, it recognizes that a minority of customers do experience gambling-related harm and that it is necessary to have safeguards in place to protect customers.

The dates of the 4th - 8th of May marked the SiGMA Foundation’s memorable journey of the Camino de Santiago. Starting from Sarria, we covered around 25 km a day until we arrived at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela in high spirits.

Leading up to this journey, our 24 participants had been training together each weekend, all in unison of this special cause, to fundraise through various means for the women empowerment project, set to be inaugurated this coming October in Bonga, Ethiopia. 

Construction of the women empowerment project as of May, 2024

This project seeks to provide tailored educational programmes and skills development opportunities to women in Bonga, Ethiopia, providing a breeding ground for the development of this community's future.

Amidst the breathtaking landscapes and camaraderie, our diverse group who were once strangers, have now forged lasting friendships, sharing laughter, overcoming challenges and embracing this powerful feat together. 

Camino 6 group on the Camino Frances trail.

 “Buildup of this was great, the training in Malta, coming together as a group and walking all this way which was really fun and challenging, but most important of all is the fact that we are also here to help those less fortunate than us, and the SiGMA Foundation has allowed us to do this”, one expedition participant shared.

Camino 6 group on the Camino Frances trail.

Our journey was faced with all seasons of weather, from heavy rain to glorious sunshine, each element further contributing to the wonder of this world-renowned Camino Frances trail. Upon reaching the Cathedral, we cherished moments of celebration as well as reflection on the journey that has brought us here, recognising the collective achievements that we’ve made for those in need in Ethiopia. 

About the SiGMA Foundation

With the world in dire need of philanthropy, the SiGMA Foundation is leading the charge. As the philanthropic arm of the SiGMA Group, the Foundation is dedicated to supporting those who are most in need.

The SiGMA Foundation was founded in 2019 by Keith Marshall, Austin Cachia and Eman Pulis, Founder of SiGMA Group, with a mission to make philanthropy more participatory and engaging. Keith, who is known for his boundless energy, has dedicated his life to making a difference in the lives of thousands of people through various expeditions across the globe. With a fun and engaging approach to fundraising, the Foundation prioritises supporting underprivileged communities through active giving and aims to create meaningful impact in the world.

If you would like to get involved in any of the Foundation’s upcoming projects visit the for more information.

Interview with SiGMA Group Founder, Eman Pulis on the SiGMA Foundation