PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco (3rd from left) joins AILGAO officers for a photo opportunity during the association’s annual Christmas Party on November 26.
The Philippines’ E-Games and E-Bingo industry is undergoing a challenging yet crucial transformation as operators shift toward stricter safeguards, clearer accountability, and more responsible gaming practices, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said in a recent address.
Speaking before members of the Association of Independent Licensed Gaming and Amusement Operators, Inc. (AILGAO) in Muntinlupa City, Tengco acknowledged that the government’s new safeguards have required significant adjustments from operators, particularly the mandatory de-linking of e-wallets from online gaming platforms. He said this move is designed to strengthen consumer protection, enhance transparency, and bolster the credibility of legitimate operators.
Tengco noted that the third quarter of 2025 saw a slight dip in gross gaming revenue compared to the previous year, describing it as a natural effect of an industry “transitioning to stronger and safer practices.” Despite the temporary slowdown, the E-Games and E-Bingo segment still posted a robust 17.4 percent year-on-year growth, proving the sector’s resilience and long-term potential.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco receives the “Gaming Exemplary Leadership Award” from AILGAO President Rafael Tabora (left) and Vice President Amelia Cruz during the association’s gathering on November 26 at the Hillsborough Clubhouse in Muntinlupa City.
He admitted that the de-linking policy caused a brief GGR drop in August and September but emphasized that such safeguards are meant to protect the ecosystem at large. “We know that many of you were affected by this sudden development,” Tengco said. “However, we must not look at these reforms as obstacles but as safeguards designed to protect your players, your businesses, and the entire ecosystem you operate in.”
While licensed operators are responsibly adapting, Tengco warned that illegal gaming platforms continue to expand aggressively—evading taxes, ignoring safeguards, and exposing players to fraud and data theft. These illicit operations, he stressed, inflict reputational damage on the entire sector, including compliant businesses.
Tengco expressed appreciation for licensed operators who continue to innovate and comply despite tighter regulations. “You are the backbone of the legitimate online gaming sector,” he said. “Integrity is the foundation of sustainability.”
During the event, AILGAO conferred on Tengco a Gaming Exemplary Leadership Award in recognition of his efforts to promote safer, more transparent gaming nationwide. AILGAO President Rafael Tabora also affirmed the group’s support, saying the reforms strengthen operator legitimacy and help create a safer environment for all players.
The message was clear: stricter rules may pose short-term challenges, but they are paving the way for a more trusted, responsible, and future-ready E-Games industry.