Philippine gaming industry down 20 per cent in second quarter

Decline was driven by the impact of inflation and the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East

The Philippine gaming industry generated Php88.13bn in gross gaming revenues (GGR) during the second quarter of 2026, down 20.33 per cent from the Php110.63bn in the same period last year

According to PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, the decline in GGR from April to June was largely driven by weaker revenues from the electronic gaming segment, as well as other factors, including renewed tensions in the Middle East.

“The decline was driven by several factors, including the impact of inflation and the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East, which weighed on consumer spending, particularly on discretionary activities,” Mr. Tengco said.

The latest data from the state gaming firm showed that licensed casinos remained the industry’s largest revenue contributor during the period, generating Php45.37 billion, or 51.49 per cent of total GGR. Meanwhile, the electronic gaming sector, which includes E-Games, E-Bingo, bingo and poker—contributed Php39.85 billion, accounting for 45.21 per cent of the industry total.

Casinos operated by PAGCOR generated Php2.90bn, representing 3.3 per cent of second quarter GGR.

Mr. Tengco expressed optimism that the local gaming industry would eventually recover, citing operators’ efforts to improve services, adopt technological innovations and strengthen responsible gaming measures.

“PAGCOR remains committed to implementing measures that will help increase GGR and further strengthen the industry’s performance. We will continue working with our stakeholders to ensure that the gaming industry remains a meaningful contributor to nation-building,” Mr. Tengco said.

Last month, Mr. Tengco reported that PAGCOR’s total revenues declined by 26.64 per cent in the first half of