
The Philippines is getting a new horse racetrack in Padre Garcia to provide a long-term home for thoroughbred racing.
The state-of-the-art racecourse is expected to open in the coming weeks, and new betting terminals are being installed. The HAPI Jockey Club will operate the Philippine Jockey Club and was granted a 25-year franchise. The current deed was signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte, allowing the club to build and manage racetracks in Batangas, Laguna, and Cavite regions.
Two of the country’s three racetracks have shut down since the COVID-19 pandemic. The Metro Manila Turf Club is the only track still in operation. It operates on a five-year lease and is expected to share racing duties with the Philippine Jockey Club once the new track is open for business.
The Philippine Jockey Club track will be a 50-acre sand course in Porta Garcia, about 90 kilometers south of Manila. Philippine Jockey Club director Manny Viray, a former horse owner and TV personality, told media sources the group has raised 1 billion pesos to fund the building project.
According to the HAPI Jockey Club Facebook account, registration for horse owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms, and helpers is now open.
Who Regulates Horse Racing In The Philippines?
The Philippine Racing Commission (Philracom) regulates all horse racing in the Philippines. The commission was founded in 1974, and its current director is Ronald A. Corpuz.
Can I bet On Horse Racing Online?
Yes, horse race betting is legal in the Philippines, either in person with OTC betting terminals or online with offshore sportsbooks. Horse race betting has a long history in the Philippines, dating back to 1903 when the Americans controlled the country. Today, only one track is still in operation, but there will soon be two once the Philippine Jockey Club starts taking bets.
For many bettors, online horse race betting is convenient as the odds are plentiful and easy to access with an online account. Legal PH sportsbooks offer race odds worldwide, including races in the Philippines. However, finding odds for smaller races will be limited online.
Online sportsbooks also offer PH bettors other sports betting options, including wagering on the NBA, PBA, NFL, FIFA, and more.