DigiPlus said to be eying acquisition of land-based casino pending online gaming regs
Summary
Leading Philippine eGames provider DigiPlus Interactive Corp is reportedly exploring the purchase of a land-based casino as a diversification move amid uncertainty over the future regulatory framework for online gaming. Sources told The Manila Standard that DigiPlus has held talks over an unnamed casino, but discussions are currently on hold until there is greater clarity on online gaming regulation.
The Philippines’ eGames sector expanded rapidly after PAGCOR permitted land-based operators to offer online gaming during the pandemic, evolving from remote access to RNG-based online offerings. The sector posted Php69 billion (US$1.2 billion) in revenue in the first seven months of 2025, but recent regulatory actions — including a ban on out-of-home advertising for online gambling and directives to remove gambling links from e-wallets — could slow growth and are prompting operators like DigiPlus to consider bricks-and-mortar exposure.
Key Points
- DigiPlus is said to be pursuing acquisition of an unnamed land-based casino to diversify beyond online operations.
- Discussions have stalled pending clearer online gaming regulations in the Philippines.
- The eGames sector grew quickly after PAGCOR allowed land-based operators to offer online gaming; revenues reached Php69 billion (US$1.2bn) in Jan–Jul 2025.
- Recent regulatory moves — a ban on out-of-home advertising and removal of gambling links from e-wallets — may curb online growth and increase regulatory risk.
- An acquisition would be a strategic hedge to balance revenue streams between online and physical gaming operations.
Context and relevance
DigiPlus’s possible shift into land-based assets comes as the Philippine regulator tightens rules affecting online operators. For industry watchers, investors and competitors, this story highlights how regulatory shifts can reshape strategic decisions: firms exposed to online-only revenues may seek tangible assets to stabilise earnings. It also underscores the ongoing tension between rapid market growth and regulatory pushback in APAC iGaming markets.
Why should I read this?
Quick and useful — if you follow Philippine iGaming, fintech links to gambling, or casino M&A, this flags a likely strategic pivot. Regulators are changing the game; DigiPlus might be getting out ahead. We read it so you don’t have to.
