EDITOR'S NOTE: An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano as a Department of the Interior and Local Government official. This error has been corrected. The DILG has not commented on online gaming regulation.

Solaire Resort, Newport World Resorts and Okada Manila have reaffirmed their commitment to responsible gaming, following the Marcos administration’s plan to impose stricter online gambling regulations.

In a joint statement on Sunday, the integrated resorts emphasized that their online platforms are regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and operate under strict standards of transparency and compliance.

“As integrated resorts, our core focus remains on delivering world-class hospitality, entertainment, and leisure experiences. Our online gaming operations are a regulated and responsibly managed extension of our operations — designed to complement our primary offerings,” the statement read.

The remarks came days after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. raised concerns about online gambling’s social impact and potential tax hikes on the sector. The Palace is also considering tighter restrictions on influencer marketing tied to betting platforms.

Solaire, Newport and Okada said their online services use geo-fencing and IP-filtering to limit access to users within the Philippines. They also enforce know-your-customer (KYC) protocols, underage blocking, and verify new users within 72 hours.

They added that gaming equipment is approved by PAGCOR, while built-in safety features such as deposit caps, self-exclusion tools, and promotional reviews are in place. Employees also receive annual compliance training and internal audits are conducted regularly.

PAGCOR resists full shutdown

PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco warned against banning online gambling altogether, noting that illegal operators — not legitimate licensees — are harming the industry.

“What’s really destroying the industry today are the illegal operators coming from other countries who are targeting Filipino customers,” Tengco said. “That’s what is currently destroying the well-regulated online gaming industry regulated by PAGCOR.”

In 2024 alone, PAGCOR collected P50 billion from licensing fees, with one major operator contributing P40 billion. Tengco said a total ban could lead to revenue losses in the hundreds of billions, along with job losses in hospitality and support services.

In a separate move, PAGCOR has ordered all gambling billboards and out-of-home ads removed by 15 August. The directive, issued on 7 July, aims to shield minors and vulnerable groups from excessive exposure. Ads in public spaces — buses, trains, taxis, jeepneys — would also be dismantled and violators would face penalties.

“While PAGCOR is mandated to regulate the gaming industry and generate revenues for nation-building, we do not want to encourage a culture of gambling addiction,” Tengco said.

Still, opposition remains. Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano dismissed PAGCOR’s revenue concerns, saying “it’s still gambling,” whether legal or not.

Tech lawyer Tonet Quiogue, however, urged lawmakers to target illegal operations, not legal platforms. “The logical approach is to surgically strike at these illicit operations, not to outlaw the entire industry,” she wrote.