DigiPlus Adapts to Philippine Online Gaming Regulation

Amid a tightening regulatory climate in the Philippines, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is positioning itself to remain resilient, leveraging strategy and innovation to adapt to changing market dynamics. Company president Andy Tsui outlined the approach at a recent Philippine Stock Exchange event, highlighting how DigiPlus is responding to new industry challenges while retaining a competitive edge.

Q3 Results Reflect Regulatory Pressures
DigiPlus reported a net income of PHP 1.71 billion (US$29 million) for the third quarter, down 51.4% from the same period last year. Revenue stayed flat at PHP 19.05 billion, while EBITDA decreased 46.7% to PHP 2.04 billion. The company attributed the decline to regulatory interventions, notably the central bank’s directive disconnecting online gaming platforms from e-wallets to enhance transaction oversight.

The Philippines’ casino regulator, PAGCOR, confirmed the slowdown in earnings, noting fewer new players have joined platforms since August. DigiPlus, which operates BingoPlus, the nation’s first government-sanctioned online bingo platform, along with ArenaPlus for sports betting and GameZone for casual gaming, responded by recalibrating priorities to focus on high-value segments.

Targeting High-Value Users Through Innovation
Tsui emphasized that 20–30% of DigiPlus’s user base drives 70–80% of revenue. By concentrating on these players, the company seeks to maintain market leadership even as the sector faces turbulence.

Locally developed games are also planned to enhance cultural relevance, while artificial intelligence and big data tools will enable personalized gameplay, promotions and responsible gaming measures. Compiling player preferences and activity patterns allows DigiPlus to improve user experience and strengthen loyalty.

International Ventures and Licensing
DigiPlus recently tested the Brazilian market with a brief “soft launch,” gaining insights into local player behaviour, preferences and gaming culture. These learnings will inform a localized game planned for early 2026.

The company is also pursuing online licenses in South Africa through the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, with approval expected in six to eight months, potentially opening another growth avenue.

Outlook and Market Leadership
Despite the current regulatory headwinds, Tsui remains optimistic that DigiPlus will return to pre-regulation earnings by Q1 or Q2 next year. With a focus on high-value users, technology investment and culturally tailored content, DigiPlus aims to maintain its leadership position in the Philippine online gaming sector.

DigiPlus’s strategy underscores the delicate balance between regulatory compliance and innovation, offering a model for other operators navigating complex markets while seeking sustainable growth.