TLDR
- PAGCOR is considering a rule that would require smart gaming tables at casinos and integrated resorts in the Philippines.
- The mandate is now likely to start no earlier than the second half of 2027, after first being expected this year.
- Large integrated resorts may be required to adopt the technology first, with smaller casinos added later.
- Only a few operators use smart tables today, including the two Solaire properties and Newport World Resorts.
- The plan is similar to a 2024 Macau recommendation, after which all six Macau concessionaires installed smart table systems.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is considering a rule that would require smart gaming table technology at casinos and integrated resorts across the country. Inside Asian Gaming first reported the plan.
The policy aims to strengthen the casino industry’s regulatory system. It would give authorities a clearer view of transactions as they happen on gaming floors.
The mandate is not expected soon. Implementation is now likely to begin no earlier than the second half of 2027.
Integrated Resorts Could Be First
The plan was first expected to be introduced this year. However, sources told Inside Asian Gaming that PAGCOR may start by applying the rule only to large integrated resorts.
Smaller casinos could be added later. The regulator is reportedly reluctant to ask these properties to make a large investment while casino revenue faces pressure from weaker tourism and global economic conditions.
Smart tables are designed to track bets and transactions more accurately. Wider use would give PAGCOR more access to data from gaming floors and support closer oversight of casino activity.
Only a few Philippine operators use the technology today. They include the two Solaire properties in Entertainment City and Quezon City, run by Bloomberry Resorts, and Newport World Resorts.
Most casinos in the country have not yet added the devices to their gaming rooms. A requirement would mark a major expansion of the technology in the Philippines.
The systems let both operators and regulators track gaming activity more closely. They also keep a better record of wagers placed at live table games than current monitoring methods.
Cost remains a concern, especially for smaller casinos. This appears to be one reason PAGCOR may begin with integrated resorts before widening the policy.
A phased approach would let the regulator increase oversight while giving smaller operators more time to prepare.
Macau Took a Similar Step
PAGCOR’s plan resembles a recommendation Macau’s government made in 2024. At that time, Macau asked its six gaming concessionaires to adopt radio-frequency identification technology on their gaming floors.
The move was partly tied to the government’s interest in measuring bets placed by foreign players. It followed an earlier announcement that concessionaires could receive a tax deduction of up to 5% on gross gaming revenue from foreign play.
The incentive was meant to push Macau operators to focus more on international markets. Since then, all six concessionaires have installed full smart table systems that can track every bet.
In Macau, the technology is now linked to casino operations as well as regulation. It has supported player loyalty programs and given operators more room to offer high-margin side bets.
In the Philippines, the timing and scope of any mandate remain unclear. PAGCOR is expected to weigh the financial impact on operators before deciding how and when to introduce the rule.
If the plan moves forward, large integrated resorts would likely be affected first, with smaller casinos following at a later date.
