DigiPlus Joins Talks on Philippines Gaming Reform

DigiPlus Interactive Corp said it supports a broader regulatory overhaul for online gaming in the Philippines as lawmakers and Pagcor tighten oversight of the sector.

Good to Know

• DigiPlus said it is part of a technical working group drafting new legislation.
• The company expects stricter rules, not a total ban on online gaming.
• DigiPlus also said prediction markets are being explored with Pagcor at an early stage.

DigiPlus Backs Tighter Rules as Philippines Gaming Debate Builds

While some market talk has focused on whether the Philippines could shut down parts of online gaming, DigiPlus said it expects a different outcome. Company president Andy Tsui said stricter regulation remains a key issue, but added the group is comfortable that a total ban is unlikely.

“We are part of it [the working group], and we are participating in that discussion,” Mr Tsui noted.

“We are quite comfortable that there will be no total ban, just stricter regulations for the sector,” he added. “These will be positive in establishing a long-term, sustainable industry.”

DigiPlus said it supports a “new, comprehensive regulatory framework” meant to raise standards across the sector. According to the company, work inside the technical group is focused on stronger consumer protection, tighter payment channel controls, and more limits on marketing.

Chairman Eusebio Tanco framed the effort as a way to keep licensed operators in the market while lifting compliance standards.

“As a licensed and leading online gaming operator, we continue to welcome collaboration and active participation in discussions with the Philippine government to achieve our shared goal of raising the standards of the industry.”

He added: “By reinforcing a market where only those who adhere to the highest standards of compliance operate, we ensure that the benefits of our industry – from job creation to essential tax revenues – are preserved for the Filipino people.”

DigiPlus already runs several gaming brands in the country, including BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone. Alongside that, the company said it has taken player protection steps such as a surety bond programme and more OTC payment options through Bayad and Pay&Go.

Another area under discussion is prediction markets. Mr Tsui said DigiPlus has started talking with Pagcor about that segment, though the work is still early.

“We are still testing it … but we haven’t seen it happen in the Philippines yet,” noted the DigiPlus president.

He added: “We hope it could be another kind of offering that we can develop in coming years.”

Legal questions remain around that product type. A paper from lawyer Marie Antonette Quiogue said Philippine law treats betting on outcomes involving any degree of chance as gambling, meaning any local offering would need legal authorization and a Pagcor license.

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