Types of Licenses
PAGCOR issues several licenses, but the most popular option is the offshore gambling license for POGOs (Philippines Offshore Gaming Operators). According to the PAGCOR website, operators can apply for the POGO under one of the following categories.
- Online Casino: This category is for operators who wish to launch an online casino within the Philippines that accepts players from other countries and not locals.
- Sports Betting: A license that covers basic sports betting services, again on websites accepting foreign members and not those from within the Philippines.
- Regulated Sports Betting: A more regulated type of sports betting license that allows operators to offer live audio and broadcasts of sporting events alongside their sports betting solutions.
- Bingo: This allows operators to offer online bingo solutions.
Areas of Focus
Part of PAGCOR’s mission involves becoming the leading gaming authority in the Asia-Pacific region by 2028. It strives to meet that goal while earning a reputation for innovation, proactiveness, and being a socially responsible regulatory organization. Moreover, it is predicted that PAGCOR will generate up to $12.5 billion in annual revenue for the Philippines by the same year.
As for PAGCOR’s Quality Policy, this details a commitment to upholding the integrity and legality of gaming operations within the Philippines. The mission is to ensure the consistent overseeing of a fair industry regulatory framework designed to protect players from gambling harm and provide a safe and fair gambling environment.
Software Testing and Licensing
All operators applying for a POGO license must comply with a rigorous testing process to ensure fairness and accuracy. PAGCOR will also vet all companies with regard to their financial capabilities and reputation. Finally, online casinos will have to gain certifications from various recognized independent testing companies such as:
- Gaming Laboratories International (GLI)
- eCOGRA
- Bmm Testlabs
- Gaming Associates Europe
- QUINEL Limited
- Eclipse Compliance Testing
How to Achieve Licensing
The first step for operators interested in gaining a POGO license is to visit the PAGCOR website. From there, those wishing to apply can download the respective licensing forms and a list of the requirements needed.
Once complete, that application is filed with the Philippine Securities Commission, and operators must settle the registration fees before waiting on the decision of their application.
In short, there are four steps:
- Obtain the documents and other financial information required for submission along with the license application.
- PAGCOR then conducts a compliance review of your company, key personnel, and investors.
- The regulatory body may request an in-office review or require separate financial audits to be performed.
- If all is satisfactory, applicants will receive their POGO license within 18 weeks, at which point they can begin offering online casino solutions to players in foreign countries.
