PAGCOR Wants New Online Gaming Law Enacted Before 2028
Philippines.- 30 September 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco has expressed his intention to see new legislation specifically covering online gaming enacted before his term ends in 2028.
The aim is to create a stronger legal foundation for a growing iGaming industry while addressing regulatory oversight, responsible gambling and long-term sustainability.
Dedicated iGaming Legislation
Tengco believes the continued expansion of online gaming requires a clearer and more specific regulatory framework.
The proposed approach would strengthen oversight and reduce regulatory uncertainty as digital gambling becomes increasingly important to the Philippine market.
Target Before 2028
The PAGCOR chief said he would like to see the legislation passed before the conclusion of his term.
With his tenure running to 2028, the next two years could therefore become an important period for the development of a broader online gaming framework.
Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling is one of the main priorities highlighted by Tengco.
Future regulation would be expected to strengthen areas including:
- Consumer protection.
- Responsible gambling.
- Operator supervision.
- Regulatory compliance.
- Technology controls.
- Market integrity.
Healthy Operating Environment
PAGCOR argues that clear regulation benefits both players and legitimate operators.
The objective is to create an environment in which licensed companies can operate under predictable rules while authorities address social and regulatory risks.
Evolving Regulatory Framework
Tengco has repeatedly said the Philippine regulatory framework must continue evolving alongside the market.
PAGCOR recognises that digital growth requires existing rules to be reviewed and adjusted as new challenges emerge.
Online Gaming Growth
iGaming has become one of the fastest-growing areas of the Philippine gaming industry.
The expansion of digital platforms has changed the structure of the market and increased the need for more specialised oversight.
It has also intensified public debate around the appropriate limits and responsibilities of the sector.
PAGCOR Decoupling
At the same time, PAGCOR is pursuing the separation of its regulatory and commercial functions.
The proposal remains under institutional review and forms part of a broader effort to modernise the agency.
The objective is for PAGCOR to focus increasingly on its regulatory role.
Strengthening Regulatory Credibility
Separating PAGCOR’s regulatory and operating functions, together with a dedicated online gaming law, could strengthen the independence and credibility of the framework.
A regulator that no longer competes directly with the businesses it supervises could reduce potential conflicts and improve market confidence.
Industry Context
The Philippines is undergoing a period of regulatory transformation.
As digital gaming continues to expand, authorities are seeking to balance investment and revenue generation with stronger responsible gambling and compliance standards.
Online gaming reform is therefore likely to remain one of the industry’s central policy issues.
Next Steps or Impact
Tengco’s objective still requires legislative progress before it can become law.
PAGCOR will continue developing its regulatory framework while also advancing the separation of its operating and regulatory functions.
If new online gaming legislation is enacted before 2028, the Philippines could establish a more specific long-term framework for operators and players in the domestic iGaming market.
Editó: @fonta
