Gambling tax rises suggested in the Philippines
Increased licence fees, betting restrictions and financial safeguards among options being considered.
Key points:
– President Marcos concerned about unregulated online gambling
– Finance officials exploring higher licence fees and regulatory reforms
– Outright ban ruled out over fears of driving industry underground
As reported by ABS-CBN, the Philippine Government is weighing new regulatory measures for the country’s growing online gambling sector, following concerns raised by lawmakers over its absence in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s recent State of the Nation Address.
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto confirmed on Tuesday that President Marcos is aware of the challenges linked to online gaming, and that discussions are ongoing about tightening oversight.
Among the proposals being reviewed is an increase in licence fees for operators. Presently, integrated resorts and platforms pay 25% of their gross gaming revenue to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), but officials are studying a potential hike to 30% or more.
Recto acknowledged that steep tax rises could push more operators into the underground market. He warned that currently an estimated 60% of online gambling activity is illegal. “If we ban it entirely, 100% may become illegal,” he said, stressing the importance of striking a balance between control and enforcement.
Good to know: The Department of Finance estimates PHP 200bn ($3.45bn) in gambling-related revenues for 2025, with online gambling projected to drive the sector’s future growth
Other ideas under review include setting higher minimum deposits for online players, removing gambling links from mobile wallets, and imposing time limits on wagers.
These discussions involve both PAGCOR and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
While some groups have pushed for a full prohibition of online gambling, government officials believe regulating the sector is a more pragmatic approach. PAGCOR, which already has regulatory authority, may implement changes without requiring congressional approval.
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