PAGCOR Sets Final B2B Accreditation Deadline

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has confirmed 31 July 2026 as the final deadline for B2B providers in the country’s online gaming sector to complete compliance with its updated accreditation framework. At the same time, the regulator introduced a temporary two-month transition period beginning on 31 May for providers that have already filed their applications and are awaiting approval.

Under the new directive, providers with pending applications may continue supplying services to Gaming System Administrators (GSAs) while PAGCOR reviews their submissions. The regulator said the temporary arrangement is intended to help the industry adapt more smoothly to the revised compliance structure.

The memorandum, released by PAGCOR’s I-Gaming Licensing and Regulation Group through its Electronic Gaming Licensing Department, stated that any supplier failing to secure accreditation by 31 July will have its gaming systems, online platforms, games and related equipment shut down starting 1 August.

To obtain accreditation, providers must complete four key requirements before the deadline. These include paying the non-refundable application fee, submitting all documentary requirements together with a probity check report, passing facility inspections and platform testing and posting the required performance cash deposit.

PAGCOR explained that the latest guidance was issued to address ongoing uncertainty in the market after previous deadline extensions. The memorandum was circulated to GSAs, integrated resort licensees, gaming affiliates, support service providers and other industry stakeholders.

Industry consultants said the clarification resolves concerns from both suppliers and operators. Tonet Quiogue, chief executive of Arden Consult, noted that many providers were uncertain whether they could continue operating while applications remained under review, while operators wanted clarity on whether working with non-accredited suppliers could expose them to penalties.

Quiogue added that the updated guidance effectively rewards companies that moved early to comply with the framework. She highlighted providers such as Light & Wonder and GLI as examples of businesses that began the accreditation process early rather than waiting for additional clarity from the regulator.

According to Quiogue, the number of B2B suppliers initiating accreditation applications has increased significantly in recent weeks as operators themselves begin demanding proof of compliance from their partners. She explained that GSAs are becoming more cautious in managing supplier relationships and in some cases, are delaying new agreements until accreditation requirements are met.

She also emphasized that the compliance framework now works both ways, with PAGCOR warning operators that they could also face regulatory consequences if they continue partnering with non-compliant suppliers. Providers that fail to satisfy the regulator’s standards, even after filing applications on time, could still face decommissioning measures similar to those imposed on companies missing the deadline entirely.

The latest move forms part of PAGCOR’s wider regulatory push introduced over the past year to strengthen oversight of the Philippine online gaming sector. Recent measures have included the implementation of Minimum Guaranteed Fees for operators, accreditation rules for data streaming providers servicing live-dealer studios, and limits on rebate and cashback programs aimed at creating a more balanced competitive environment.