Casinos in the Philippines have been booming in the last few decades, becoming a leading gambling destination in Southeast Asia. Today, the Philippines is known for its thriving casino industry.
The growth of casinos in the Philippines has boosted tourism and the economy. In the early 2000s, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), a state-owned and controlled corporation, took a major step in promoting the casino industry, resulting in the development of several high-end casino resorts, most notably in the entertainment city of Manila.
Attracting millions of tourists and gamblers from around the world, these establishments not only provide gambling services, but also provide one-stop entertainment destinations, with luxurious accommodations, fine dining, shopping malls, and live entertainment.
The laws related to gambling in the Philippines are important for both operators and players. The industry is primarily regulated by PAGCOR, which oversees all land-based and online gambling activities in the country. PAGCOR not only licenses casinos, but also operates several of its own establishments. To ensure that the industry adheres to strict regulations designed to promote fair play and responsible gambling,
In addition to PAGCOR, the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) also plays a role in regulating online gambling. CEZA issues licenses to online gaming operators, allowing them to operate in foreign markets, provided they do not target Filipino players. This dual regulatory approach has allowed the Philippines to stand as a leader in both traditional and online gambling in the region.