Introduction
The Philippines operates a structured gambling licensing system for land-based and online operators, overseen by a centralized regulator with defined approval and compliance standards. This guide explains how to obtain a gambling license in the Philippines by outlining license categories, application requirements, regulatory timelines, and how online casino platform development fits into meeting technical and operational readiness before launch.
Why the Philippines Is a Leading Gambling Jurisdiction
The Philippines has built a strong reputation as a regulated gambling hub in Southeast Asia. Its licensing framework balances regulatory control with commercial viability, making it attractive to both new and established operators.
Key reasons operators choose the Philippines include:
- A centralized regulatory authority with clear enforcement powers
- A transparent licensing and compliance framework
- English as the official business and regulatory language
- An experienced, cost-effective workforce for gaming operations
- Established land-based and online gambling infrastructure
- Predictable taxation through a franchise tax model
Overview of the Philippines as a Gambling Jurisdiction
The gambling industry in the Philippines operates under a centralized regulatory framework that provides legal clarity, operational stability, and international accessibility for licensed operators.
Regulation is overseen by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), a government-owned authority.
PAGCOR manages licensing, supervision, and enforcement of gambling activities.
The regulator issues gambling licenses and monitors ongoing compliance obligations.
Responsible gaming standards are enforced across licensed operators.
Financial and technical audits are conducted to ensure regulatory adherence.
All licensing procedures, applications, and regulatory reporting are handled in English, simplifying compliance for international businesses.
The Philippines supports a mature gaming ecosystem, with access to compliance specialists, customer support teams, payment professionals, and experienced gaming IT talent.
Key Benefits of a Philippines Gambling License
A gambling license issued in the Philippines offers several strategic advantages:
- Clear regulatory oversight with defined licensing standards
- Predictable taxation through a franchise-based tax structure
- Enhanced credibility with banks, payment processors, and partners
- Regional access to Asian gaming markets, subject to legal limits
- Skilled English-speaking workforce with iGaming experience
- Operational stability due to long-standing gambling regulation
Gambling License Authorities in the Philippines
| Criteria | PAGCOR | CEZA / APECO |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Role | National gambling regulator | Economic zone authorities |
| License Scope | Land-based casinos, integrated resorts, approved online gaming | Zone-restricted or offshore gaming |
| Geographic Validity | Nationwide recognition | Limited to specific zones |
| Banking & Credibility | Strong acceptance by banks and partners | Limited recognition outside the zone |
| Compliance & AML | Strict AML, KYC, audits, and monitoring | Lighter, variable compliance |
| Long-Term Stability | Backed by national legislation | Dependent on zone policies |
Types of Gambling Licenses Available
The Philippines offers several license categories depending on the operator’s business model:
- Casino Gaming License – for land-based casino operations
- Electronic / Internet Gaming License – for online casinos, RNG games, table games, live dealer platforms, poker, and bingo (usually restricted to non-resident players)
- Sports Betting License – for land-based or online sports wagering
- B2C Operator License – for businesses offering gambling services directly to players
- B2B / Software Provider License – for platform providers, game developers, aggregators, and backend service companies
Eligibility Criteria and Documentation Requirements
Only registered companies are eligible to apply for a gambling license in the Philippines. Individual applicants are not permitted
Core eligibility criteria include:
- Incorporation of a Philippine legal entity
- Registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission
- Minimum paid-up capital (commonly around PHP 25 million for online gaming activities)
- Full disclosure of shareholders and beneficial owners
- Demonstrated financial capacity to operate sustainably
- Appointment of key officers, including a compliance officer
- Secure IT systems and certified gaming software
Documentation typically required:
- Detailed business and operational plan
- KYC documentation for directors, shareholders, and key officers
- Financial statements and proof of capital
- Anti-money laundering and responsible gaming policies
- Technical architecture and system descriptions
- Background declarations and regulatory forms
Step-by-Step Licensing Process
The licensing process in the Philippines evaluates an applicant’s legal setup, compliance readiness, and operational capability before approval.
Step 1: Company incorporation and local bank account setup
- Register a Philippine legal entity with the relevant authorities
- Appoint directors, officers, and a compliance representative
- Secure a registered office address
- Open a local corporate bank account and fund the required paid-up capital
Step 2: Preparation of application materials
- Prepare a detailed business and operational plan
- Draft AML, KYC, and responsible gambling policies
- Compile financial statements and ownership disclosures
- Document technical infrastructure, platform security, and data protection
Step 3: Submission of a letter of intent
- Outline proposed gambling activities and license category
- Describe game offerings and service scope
- Specify target markets and restricted jurisdictions
Step 4: Formal due diligence review
- Background checks on shareholders, directors, and key personnel
- Financial strength and source-of-funds assessment
- Technical review of gaming systems and compliance controls
Step 5: Pre-approval and payment of licensing fees
- Receive preliminary regulatory approval
- Pay license issuance and regulatory fees
- Complete any remaining technical audits or certifications
Step 6: Final review and license issuance
- Final compliance verification by the regulator
- Official issuance of the gambling license
- Authorization to commence regulated gambling operations
Cost of a Gambling License in the Philippines
The total cost depends on the license type and the scope of compliance. Below is an estimated breakdown of the first-year costs for obtaining a gambling license in the Philippines.
| Cost Item | PHP (₱) | USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Application & Due Diligence | ₱300,000 – ₱500,000 | $5,000 – $9,000 |
| License Issuance & Approval | ₱1,000,000 – ₱1,500,000 | $17,000 – $26,000 |
| Setup & Compliance (Tech + AML) | ₱500,000 – ₱1,000,000 | $8,500 – $17,000 |
| Estimated First-Year Total | ₱1.8M – ₱3M+ | $30,000 – $52,000+ |
Compliance and Ongoing Regulatory Obligations
Holding a gambling license in the Philippines involves continuous regulatory responsibilities:
- AML and KYC enforcement, including customer verification and transaction monitoring
- Responsible gaming measures, such as self-exclusion tools and betting limits
- Audits and reporting, through regular submissions to the regulator
- Marketing controls, requiring approval of promotions and loyalty programs
Taxation of Gambling Companies
Licensed gambling operators are subject to a franchise tax system applied to gross gaming revenue. This structure generally replaces corporate income tax and VAT on gaming income, simplifying tax compliance. Non-gaming income may be taxed separately depending on the company structure.
Market Access and Legal Limitations
A Philippine gambling license does not grant unrestricted global market access:
- Most online gaming licenses prohibit participation by Philippine residents
- Operators must block players from jurisdictions where gambling is illegal
- Some regulated markets may not recognize a Philippine license
Also Read: How to Start Online Casino in Philippines?
Conclusion
A Philippines gambling license offers a regulated foundation for iGaming operators seeking compliant, long-term operations in international markets. With centralized oversight and clearly defined regulatory expectations, operators benefit from understanding the full licensing lifecycle through a step-by-step iGaming license process, while working with experienced partners like SDLC Corp helps ensure documentation, technical setup, and ongoing compliance are aligned with regulatory requirements from the outset, reducing approval delays and operational risk.
FAQ's
Is gambling legal in the Philippines?
Yes. Gambling is legal in the Philippines when conducted under a valid license issued by PAGCOR or an authorized special economic zone authority.
Does SDLC Corp provide post-licensing technical and compliance support?
Yes. SDLC Corp helps licensed operators with ongoing compliance support, including AML/KYC system integration, platform security, reporting workflows, and audit readiness.
Who regulates gambling licenses in the Philippines?
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is the primary regulator responsible for licensing, compliance oversight, audits, and enforcement.
What types of gambling licenses are available in the Philippines?
Available license categories include land-based casino gaming, electronic or internet gaming, sports betting, B2C operator licenses, and B2B software provider licenses.
Can SDLC Corp assist with the gambling license application process?
Yes. SDLC Corp supports operators by assisting with licensing documentation, compliance preparation, technical readiness, and alignment with regulatory requirements.
How much does it cost to obtain a gambling license in the Philippines?
Total costs typically range from PHP 1.5 million to PHP 3 million+ (USD 25,000–55,000+), depending on the license type, operational scale, and compliance requirements.
How long does the licensing process take?
The licensing process generally takes several months, depending on due diligence checks, documentation quality, and regulatory review timelines.
Can SDLC Corp support foreign companies entering the Philippine gambling market?
Yes. SDLC Corp works with foreign-owned businesses to establish locally compliant entities, prepare technical infrastructure, and ensure operational systems meet Philippine regulatory standards.
Are Philippine residents allowed to play on licensed online gambling platforms?
No. Most online gambling licenses prohibit accepting wagers from Philippine residents, restricting operations to offshore or non-resident players.
