PAGCOR Caps Online Gaming Rebates In Philippines

PAGCOR has limited cash rebates and cash-back offers from online gaming operators as the regulator works to curb aggressive promotions.

Good to Know

• Cash rebates are now capped at 1.5% of player turnover or deposits for several online gaming categories.
• Cash back may reach 15% for all e-games based on player net losses.
• PAGCOR said the rules aim to prevent “destructive competition” among licensed platforms.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp has introduced new limits on online gaming incentives, with the rules taking effect immediately under a 7 May directive.

The regulator said licensed platforms have been competing hard for player loyalty through large promotions and reward programs. According to PAGCOR, matching offers often reach 100% or more, with totals above standard market levels.

PAGCOR said the cap should help stop a “race to the bottom” that could hurt industry integrity.

Online Gaming Incentives Face New Limits

Under the new rules, cash rebates may not exceed 1.5% of player turnover or deposits for slots, e-bingo, numeric games, and sports betting. Operators may also offer up to 15% cash back for all e-games, based on player net losses.

PAGCOR also changed how operators must treat those costs. Cash rebates and cash-back offers cannot be recorded as operator losses. Instead, platforms must classify them as expenses tied to gaming operations.

The directive fits into a wider tightening of Philippine iGaming oversight. In April, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said online gaming produced more than half of total gaming revenue in 2025, overtaking licensed casinos as the largest GGR contributor.

PAGCOR has already ordered the removal of gambling ads from billboards and public transportation. It also requires the Ads Standards Council to pre-screen gambling promotions before they appear on social media and other digital channels.

Player checks have also become stricter. Users must now submit valid government ID cards and real-time selfies before making deposits, as PAGCOR tries to stop players from avoiding identity checks.

At the same time, the regulator has pushed to restore e-wallet funding for gambling transactions. Last August, the Philippines Central Bank, known as BSP, ordered e-wallets to remove in-app links that sent users to gambling sites.

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