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BSP Proposes Stricter Online Gambling Payment Regulations

7/15/2025

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Summary

BSP Regulates Gambling

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) proposed regulations for online gambling payments, including daily transfer limits and cooling-off periods.
Payment service providers (PSPs) must obtain BSP approval and enforce anti-money laundering protocols.
Major casino operators emphasized their commitment to compliance and responsible gaming amid regulatory scrutiny.
Lawmakers advocate for stricter measures, potentially including a ban on online gambling due to social issues.

Summary

Marcos Proposes Gaming Taxes

The Philippine government is exploring new taxes on online gaming to increase revenue, despite expert concerns.
Licensed operators currently endure a tax rate of 35-38% on gross gaming revenue, one of the highest worldwide.
Experts warn that high taxes may push legal operators into illegal markets, harming revenue objectives.
New PAGCOR regulations mandate local operations for support businesses, promoting economic integration.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supports new taxes if properly assessed, while industry leaders call for balance.

History

Historical Context

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), established in 1977, regulates gambling in the Philippines, including online gaming since 2016. The 2019 Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law raised taxes significantly, with PAGCOR reporting a 35-38% tax rate on gaming revenue. This trend raises concerns about potential illegal market growth as new taxes on online gaming are proposed.

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BSP Regulates Gambling

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) proposed regulations for online gambling payments, including daily transfer limits and cooling-off periods.
Payment service providers (PSPs) must obtain BSP approval and enforce anti-money laundering protocols.
Major casino operators emphasized their commitment to compliance and responsible gaming amid regulatory scrutiny.
Lawmakers advocate for stricter measures, potentially including a ban on online gambling due to social issues.

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