In a striking development at the Global Gaming Expo Asia @ the Philippines 2025, industry leaders emphasized how the Covid-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the transition from land-based to online gaming platforms. The panel discussion centered on the rapid digital transformation in the Philippines’ gaming sector, noting that what was expected to be a gradual shift over a decade happened in mere months due to the pandemic’s impact on physical casino operations.
Ricardo Banaag, president and CEO of DFNN Inc, which manages several online gaming licenses through its subsidiary Inter-Active Entertainment Solutions Technologies Inc, highlighted the necessity of this rapid transition. As traditional casino establishments were forced to close due to health restrictions, loyal players turned to online alternatives to fulfill their gaming needs. This unforeseen switch became a permanent change in consumer behavior rather than a temporary fix.
The evolution of the gaming market now demands that land-based casinos incorporate online services to remain competitive. The panel agreed that, in today’s landscape, a digital presence is essential for any casino operator aiming to stay relevant. This shift is driven by consumer preferences rather than regulatory pressure, indicating a substantial change in how gaming entertainment is delivered.
Experts also warned against the potential proliferation of unregulated gaming markets if comprehensive bans were placed on licensed online gaming. The familiarity of the Filipino population with digital gaming makes it nearly impossible to revert entirely to pre-pandemic operations. Restricting licensed providers could inadvertently give rise to illicit markets, compromising regulatory control and consumer protection.
During the pandemic, in December 2020, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) made significant regulatory adjustments, enabling certain casino resorts to offer remote gaming services legally. This move acknowledged the need for flexibility during the pandemic and established a regulatory link between online platforms and land-based casinos. Banaag pointed out that PAGCOR’s regulations ensure that every online player registration is connected to a physical casino outlet, maintaining a bridge between the digital and traditional gaming sectors.
The central bank’s directive in August to separate e-wallet services from gaming platforms spotlighted the regulatory challenges within online gaming. Marie Antonette Quiogue, a legal advisor, noted that at its peak, a leading e-wallet service catered to 94 million users, highlighting the critical role of digital payment systems in supporting online gaming infrastructure.
Globally, the pandemic compressed the timeline for gaming’s digital migration from a projected 10-15 years to just 2-3 years, as noted by Artur Manasaryan, deputy head of business development at BetConstruct. This rapid adaptation underscores the necessity of an online presence for gaming operators, which has become vital for competitive strategy and business sustainability.
Manasaryan also emphasized the importance of self-exclusion measures as a crucial component of sustainable licensed online gaming. He cited the United Kingdom’s model, where self-exclusion from one platform applies across multiple operators, although many self-excluded players still seek other gambling avenues.
The crisis in the Philippines’ gaming sector demonstrates how digital transitions, initially driven by necessity, have solidified into enduring market structures. Instead of being a temporary solution to pandemic challenges, online gaming has become an integral part of the overall gaming ecosystem, complementing rather than replacing traditional casinos. This transformation reflects a global trend toward a more integrated approach to gaming entertainment.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
4.4/5Royal Vincit Casino Review
Bonus Code: NDB10
