CasinoPlus, a regulated online gaming provider under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), has secured partnerships with seven integrated resort (IR) licensees in the Philippines. This collaboration aims to enhance the online gambling landscape in the country by enabling land-based casino operators to offer online gaming services through the CasinoPlus platform. Among the participating casinos are prominent resorts in Manila, marking a significant step in bridging traditional and digital gaming experiences.
Evan Spytma, CEO of CasinoPlus, highlighted the company’s mission to simplify and expedite the transition for land-based casinos entering the online gaming sector. By providing the necessary technological infrastructure and operational expertise, CasinoPlus alleviates the challenges associated with establishing an online gaming presence. Spytma noted, “What we’re doing is offering not only the technology but the player base through CasinoPlus.” This comprehensive support allows casino operators to focus on leveraging their existing resources without incurring additional costs.
CasinoPlus’s approach is rooted in the framework of the Philippine Inland Gaming Operator (PIGO) licenses introduced by Pagcor. Unlike traditional online gaming, PIGO games must remain connected to physical gaming machines or tables located in a licensed casino. This model not only adheres to regulatory requirements but also ensures a seamless integration of online and on-site gaming experiences.
CasinoPlus operates with a gaming license tied to its Hotel Stotsenberg and Casino in Clark, currently undergoing renovations. The platform enables casino operators to allocate an additional 25% capacity to their gaming tables and slot machines for online use. By partnering with CasinoPlus, operators can leverage this quota to reach a broader audience through the platform’s established player base. Revenue-sharing agreements between CasinoPlus and its partners ensure mutual benefits, although specific details of the financial arrangements remain undisclosed.
The collaboration promises to open new revenue streams for casino operators while enhancing brand recognition. CasinoPlus integrates the branding of its partner casinos into its platform, allowing online players to connect with the physical casino’s identity. Additionally, land-based promotions targeting CasinoPlus players aim to drive traffic back to the partner properties, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem.
The growth of online gaming in the Philippines has been fueled by advancements in technology and the widespread adoption of smartphones. According to Pagcor, the electronic gaming segment saw exceptional growth, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) reaching PHP35.71 billion (approximately USD 605.1 million) in the third quarter of 2024. This marked a 464.4% year-on-year increase, reflecting the sector’s rapid expansion.
Alejandro Tengco, Pagcor’s president and chairman, emphasized the pivotal role of technology in shaping the future of gaming. “Modern technology and mobile gadgets ensure that the future of gaming will be online,” Tengco stated, underlining the importance of adapting to digital trends to sustain growth.
Pagcor projects that GGR in the Philippines will surpass USD 6 billion in 2024, setting a new record for the industry. This optimistic outlook underscores the potential of initiatives like CasinoPlus in contributing to the sector’s continued success.
By fostering partnerships with leading integrated resorts, CasinoPlus is poised to become a key player in the Philippine online gaming market. Its innovative model not only supports the growth of individual casino operators but also aligns with the broader vision of creating a thriving and regulated online gaming environment.
