Philippine gaming industry posts almost $1.9 billion revenue in Q1 2025
The Philippine gaming industry earned PHP104.12 billion ($1.88 billion) in Gross Gaming Revenues (GGR) in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 27.44 percent increase from the same period in 2024, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
The rapid growth of electronic gaming platforms mainly drove this performance. For the first time, the E-Games and E-Bingo segment outperformed all other gaming sectors, contributing PHP51.39 billion ($928 million), or 49.36 percent of the total GGR for the quarter.
“The E-Games and E-Bingo segment made history by becoming the industry’s top revenue driver for the first time,” Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO, said. “This represents not just revenue growth but how consumer behaviour continues to shift towards digital, on-demand gaming experiences, accelerated by greater access to mobile technology.”
The PAGCOR Chief said the agency acknowledged the growing influence of digital platforms in reshaping the country’s gaming landscape. “As digital platforms take centre stage, the Philippine gaming industry is likewise undergoing a paradigm shift. Hence, our goal as a regulator is to strike the right balance between innovation, player protection and long-term industry sustainability,” he said.
Licensed casinos maintain strong position
Despite the rise of digital gaming, licensed brick-and-mortar casinos continued to play an important role. These establishments generated PHP49.28 billion ($890 million) in the first quarter, accounting for 47.32 percent of the total GGR.
“While there was a minimal dip in revenues from licensed casinos compared to last year’s figures due to growing digital competition, this segment shows sustained strength and relevance,” Tengco stated. “The performance of brick-and-mortar casinos remains critical to industry stability, particularly in tourism-driven hubs such as Entertainment City and Clark.”
These traditional casinos have long been pillars of the country’s gaming industry and remain essential to its continued development, particularly in areas that attract both domestic and international visitors. Last year, the agency said it would launch an ambitious expansion plan for integrated resort casinos across the Philippines. Tengco shared that a new property is slated to open in Entertainment City by 2025, with further projects in Cebu and Boracay expected by 2026. He added that an economic zone in Central Luzon is also planned for 2027.
PAGCOR-operated casinos report modest share
Government-run gaming venues, managed directly by PAGCOR, contributed PHP3.45 billion ($62.3 million) to the overall first quarter GGR. This figure represents 3.31 percent of the industry’s total.
While this share is smaller compared to private licensed operators and the expanding E-Games sector, the figure reflects PAGCOR’s continued role as both a regulator and direct industry participant. Looking ahead, Tengco underscored PAGCOR’s commitment to managing the industry’s evolution. “As the market changes, so must our regulatory frameworks. Our focus remains on ensuring a secure, fair and responsible gaming environment while supporting innovation and economic growth,” he concluded.
