Pagcor Targets 2027 Casino Filipino Exit As Losses Reach PHP7 Billion

Casino Filipino could lose at least PHP7 billion in 2026, up from roughly PHP6 billion last year, as Pagcor seeks government approval to leave casino operations by late 2027.

Good To Know

• The proposed sale could raise at least PHP20 billion, or about $318.8 million.
• Pagcor operates 12 casinos directly and has 23 under revenue sharing agreements.
• Separating casino operations from regulation still requires government approval.

Casino Filipino Sale Awaits October Recommendation

Existing Pagcor licensees have expressed interest in acquiring Casino Filipino outlets. A sale would also end the arrangement under which the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp regulates private casinos while competing with them.

Chairman and Chief Executive Alejandro Tengco linked the losses to workforce costs. Speaking to reporters at the Kaban Hotel and Casino opening in Boracay, he said:

“Casino Filipino is bleeding like mad.”

Meanwhile, wider financial obligations are weighing on Pagcor. A Supreme Court ruling requires payments equivalent to 5% of gross revenue to the Philippine Sports Commission, covering reporting years back to 1993. Tengco said monthly remittances have increased from roughly PHP180 million to PHP400 million.

The next decision rests with the Governance Commission for Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations. Tengco said:

“Within October, the Governance Commission for Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations [GCG] will make a recommendation to the Office of the President on whether it supports the decoupling or not.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr must then consider the proposal. Subject to approval, Pagcor aims to exit casino operations in the third or fourth quarter of 2027.

The agency also faces weaker industry earnings. Tengco expects Philippine gross gaming revenue to exceed PHP350 billion in 2026, below the original PHP400 billion target. He cited the economic downturn and Middle East conflict.

Pagcor net income could fall below PHP5 billion, compared with nearly PHP17.5 billion in 2025.

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