The Philippines has become one of the most active online gambling markets in Southeast Asia. Esports betting is quickly becoming a major focus.
As games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and VALORANT grow in popularity, more Filipino bettors are using online platforms to place bets on matches, tournaments, and player performances. This increase follows a global trend, with esports betting turnover exceeding $10 billion in 2024, according to numerous sources.
In the Philippines, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is cautious about esports betting. PAGCOR sees the economic benefits of regulated gambling but also warns about the risks of addiction. The debate is growing as more young people, who are already active in gaming, get involved in esports betting. Supporters of regulation believe it is better to regulate than ban betting, as this helps protect consumers and keep competitions fair.
A key example in this debate is Riot Games’ recent move to allow betting sponsorships for top esports teams in the Americas and EMEA. Riot stressed the need for safeguards, integrity programs, and official data partnerships to stop unregulated markets from taking advantage of younger players.
In the Philippines, where esports is both popular and growing as an industry, policymakers can shape local policies that balance new opportunities with responsible practices by studying the rules used in places like the Americas and EMEA.
Philippine Gambling Sites: Domestic and Offshore
In the Philippines, people over 18 can wager at offshore online sportsbooks, while those 21 and older can also use local online sportsbooks.
A major challenge for regulators is the growing number of offshore gambling sites. These sites, which are based outside the Philippines, offer Filipino players high payouts, crypto banking, and bigger sportsbook bonuses. Local online gambling sites simply cannot match the variety of esports odds, international game lines, or bonus offers found on offshore platforms.
Esports Teams Driving the Market Forward
Even with regulatory challenges, the Philippines has a lively esports scene that drives interest in betting. Teams like Blacklist International, Bren Esports, and TNC Predator are known internationally. They play in big tournaments for games like Mobile Legends, Dota 2, and VALORANT. Their achievements have raised the country’s status in global esports and attracted fans who want to get more involved through betting.
These teams show both sides of esports gambling in the Philippines. They bring opportunity, growth, and pride, but also highlight the need for careful rules to ensure betting does not harm fair play or take advantage of fans.
Riot Games has shown that sponsorship models, integrity programs, and official data partnerships can help protect the esports ecosystem. For the Philippines, using similar steps could help keep both the esports industry and the gambling market healthy.
