Just months after floating the idea to enter the e-casino industry, Philippines-based e-lotto operator Pacific Online Systems Corporation (POSC) is “rethinking” the move.
According to POSC Chair and Director Willy Ocier, the shift was due to the government’s move to further look into Philippine Inland Gaming Operators (PIGOs). This comes after offshore gaming operators (POGOs) were shut down by 31 December 2024.
“We’re rethinking it. If there’s that uncertainty … we’re not that aggressive on it,” Ocier told media on the sidelines of SM Investments Corp.’s annual stockholders meeting. In January, POSC announced that it is going to expand its presence in the online gaming industry with a PHP150-million (about $2.69 million) investment in HHR Philippines Inc. (HHRPI), a software and professional service provider for electronic gaming platforms. The company announced in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) that it has signed an investment agreement to acquire a 37.5-percent stake in HHRPI. HHRPI also holds a license for online gaming under the “Buenas” brand.
Ocier noted strong competition in the market, highlighting giant Digiplus, which has over 40 million users. The executive also indicated that there is no intention for the company to increase its stake in HHRPI. “Through this investment in HHRPI, the corporation will be expanding its presence in the online gaming business through a company licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR),” POSC had said in January. The company added that the investment will support HHRPI’s expansion initiatives.
HHRPI’s online gaming operations
HHRPI provides software and professional services for land-based and online gaming operators. It holds a PAGCOR gaming licence for online gaming under the brand “Buenas.” The company has also partnered with digital payment platforms GCash and Maya, making it easier for players to access and engage with its offerings.
HHRPI is owned by lawyer and entrepreneur Tony Manguiat, who is also behind the premium local liquor or lambanog brand “Lakan.” The “Buenas” platform features Filipino social media personality Boss Toyo and actress-comedian Valeen Montenegro as brand ambassadors, boosting its market presence.
POSC’s involvement in e-lotto operations
In addition to its investment in HHRPI, POSC has been actively involved in digital gaming through its e-lotto operations. In June, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) awarded POSC a PHP4.1-billion (€67.5 million) contract to operate its e-lotto platform.
PCSO’s special bids and awards committee selected POSC as the “single calculated and responsive bid” for the project. The company had previously signed an agreement with PCSO in August 2023 to develop a “web-based application betting platform.” The e-lotto platform, launched on 15 December 2023, allows players to access traditional lottery games online.
