S&P Global Ratings has issued a report highlighting the evolving landscape of the Philippine gaming industry. According to the report, gross gaming revenue (GGR) is expected to contract this year, marking a shift from the 6% growth recorded in 2025. The report attributes this decline to the crackdown on online gambling by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in August 2025. This move has raised concerns about gambling addiction, leading to reduced consumer spending and tourism inflows, which impacts the gaming sector negatively.
However, S&P Global Ratings projects a 2% revenue increase for the gaming industry by 2027. They believe that the cautious stance towards online gaming can be managed with regulation, fees, and anti-money laundering checks, as well as advertising controls.
In May, S&P Global Ratings downgraded the outlook of Okada Manila operator Universal Entertainment Corp. to negative from stable. The agency cited the continuous downturn in the integrated resort segment due to challenging macroeconomic conditions and increased competition within the Philippine gaming market.
The report highlights the challenges faced by the Philippine gaming market and emphasizes the importance of effective regulation and control measures to navigate the industry's future.
