Players from the Philippines are lucky to choose among the best online betting brands in the world. If you are a native Filipino or just currently residing on this island, you will have the chance to enjoy the best bookmakers in the Philippines.
The Best Betting Sites in the Philippines
Filipinos continue to have a love affair with online gambling and the bookmakers and casinos that populate the virtual airwaves. That has led to many operators entering the Philippine marketplace with hopes of capturing the attention of its people. While there are many, the best online bookies in the Philippines are known for offering award-winning betting platforms. Several we mention below have even been recognised for their innovative approach to sports and casino betting.
Therefore, it is worth mentioning that before extending your search for a viable betting partner, considering the bookies we list below will benefit in the long run. Not only do they meet the criteria we have spoken of, but they surpass them.
22bet
A bookmaker that has defied the odds, 22Bet continues to provide innovative solutions to punters around the globe. With an interface and layout designed around player usability, 22Bet offers a substantial variety of betting options. Along with its standout sports betting platform, 22Bet features a casino, live casino, bingo, TV Games and virtual sports. All of them have been conveniently combined with platform-specific promotions and an impressive selection of mobile betting products.
- Pros
- Exciting additional games
- Great markets and features
- Attractive design
- Various payments
- Cons
- Mirror link is required
1xbet
1xBet grabbed the attention of its global audience of sports and casino bettors shortly after its grand opening in 2007. After more than 15 years of success, it is clear the dedication towards attention to detail is paying dividends for 1xBet. With an established sportsbook and casino, their success has led 1xBet to expand their portfolio to include virtual sports, esports, bingo, live casino gaming, fantasy sports and poker. Moreover, as a betting partner to millions, it offers a never-ending supply of promotions, and more importantly, is crypto and mobile-friendly.
- Pros
- Superb odds
- Excellent offers with EFIRBET bonus code
- Various payment methods
- Good mobile betting apps
- Cons
- Mirror link needed
Melbet
Another in our list of leading Filipino bookmakers, Melbet established itself as a top contender in 2012. Since their introduction to players across the Philippines and Asia, they have grown to expand their services to include casino, bingo, tote, live gaming and naturally, sports and in-play betting. Serving players in over 40 countries, Melbet offers multiple mobile betting products, including a dedicated mobile website and apps for both iOS and Android.
- Pros
- Great variety of markets
- Many enlisted sports
- Competitive odds
- Generous promotions
- Cons
- Lagging In-play betting
Why Choose Online Betting in the Philippines
A significant number of Filipinos enjoy gambling, despite having to deal with laws that are restrictive yet left unattended. While the Philippines are adopting an evolving stance towards offshore gambling, it remains a challenging but increasing popular activity as the economic stability of the country improves. With a legal system that often chooses to look the other way, Filipinos are able to freely engage in a diverse range of gambling activities.
The resultant evolving stance towards offshore gambling by the Philippines government has seen an explosion of offshore betting opportunities. Considering Filipinos are known for their passion for sports, bookmakers far and wide have begun to advertise their services. Along with access to top-tier sporting events, the list of online betting sites in the Philippines has grown to include casinos, bingo and poker sites, to name a few.
The combination of these factors makes choosing online betting in the Philippines one that thousands are making. This is not without merit, as it is the logical solution for a country that seems on the fence with the social stigma that comes from gambling. Still, with lucrative bonuses for Filipino customers, it is hard to argue against the benefits this form of entertainment provides.
Gambling Facts at a Glance
CurrencyThe Philippines enjoys a diverse cultural history that includes hundreds of languages across its 7,500 plus islands. Resultant of that diversity, the country adopted the Philippines Peso as its national currency. | |
PopulationWith a global population ranking of 13, the Philippines estimated population as of 2021 is 110.71 million. Subsequently, the Philippines population represents 1.41% of the worlds total population and boasts an average age of 25.7 years. | |
Active playersExact activity numbers based on the most recent population census is not available. However, with an estimated $404 million in generated income from gambling activities in the Philippines, it is safe to say, Filipinos like to gamble. | |
Regulatory authorityThe government agency responsible for managing, overseeing and issuing gambling licenses in the Philippines is the Philippine Amusement and Gambling Corporation. | |
Licensed gambling productsThe current laws that govern gambling within the Philippines are surprisingly liberal. Currently, the list of licensed gambling products are quite diverse and allow for most forms of gambling, including the following:
| |
Types of operatorsThe Philippines gambling act focuses largely on a state monopoly that is controlled by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. As of 2021, they allow for the following land-based and offshore type of operators:
|
Is Online Betting Legal in the Philippines?
For all intent and purposes, gambling in the Philippines is legal and governed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The scope of its responsibilities includes the regulating of offshore gambling and enforcement of the laws that govern gambling within Philippine borders. More, due to the increasing acceptance of offshore gaming operators, the PAGCOR is responsible for the issuance of licenses, protection against money laundering and the enforcement of responsible gaming initiatives.
Subsequent to the favourable gambling laws, Filipinos are able to gamble freely at licensed offshore betting established. However, if gambling within Philippine borders, it is only legal to gamble at those establishments operated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. Anyone in defiance of those laws or who partakes in gambling services with non0licenses entities can face still fines and, in the rare situation, possible detention.
How to Choose the Right Online Betting Site
Understanding where to bet in the Philippines and how to find the bonuses for the Philippines customers can be a challenge. However, there are some key indicators that, when used correctly, will lead you in the right direction. Equally, it will ensure the betting site you choose is reputable, safe and appreciates the value of good customer service. Before beginning your journey, consider the following:
- Does the operator have a valid license to operate within the Philippines?
- Are the betting products offered suitable for your preferences?
- Is the betting site secure, reputable and trustworthy?
- Do they offer 24-hour customer support such as email or live chat?
- Does the bookmaker offer competitive odds and multiple betting features such as live streaming or early cash out option?
- Do they offer a respectable selection of bonuses and promotions?
- Are they compatible with the type of mobile device you own?
Bonuses for Filipinos
Due to the love Filipinos have for online bookmakers, many operators focus their energies on attracting the attention of Filipino punters. One of their most effective marketing efforts is none other than by offering free bets. Above and beyond the offers of free bets, bookmakers are drawn to offering welcome bonuses whereby they match deposits peso for peso.
While first deposit bonuses are always an appealing side to joining a new bookmaker, the real advantage comes down the road. Bookmakers want their Filipino players to stick around and subsequently offer a variety of promotions meant to motivate and reward their loyalty. These vary in size and design and can include reload bonuses, free bets, ACCA bonuses and VIP bonuses, to name a few.
Most Popular Sports to Bet on in Philippines
While it is well-known that Filipinos share a strong interest in sports, there are several that are seen as national favourites. While there are diverse interests across the country, many of its populous are drawn to five sport types. List in random order, these include:
- Basketball
- Badminton
- Football
- Boxing
- Baseball
- Horse racing
Are Online Casinos Popular?
After the Philippine government adopted a more liberal approach to offshore gambling and its acceptance, interest in online casinos from Filipinos has steadily grown. While there are no studies that provide active Filipino player activity, the abundance of online casinos marketing their service to Filipinos speaks volumes. Moreso, due to the lacklustre enforcement of gambling income taxation, Filipinos find it a top choice for their online entertainment needs, and more importantly, as a way to supplement their income from time to time when luck prevails.
Trivia/Did you know that…
- The Philippines is made up of over 7,400 islands, of which there are 175 spoken languages, with four of those being tribal dialects.
- Due to the economic opportunities abroad, over 11 million people from the Philippines, or almost 10% of its population, work abroad.
- Coconuts is the number one export from the Philippines, with over 19.5 million tons of fruit shipped worldwide every year.
- Considering their proximity to Southeast Asia, it may come as a surprise to learn the predominant religion in the Philippines is Christianity. As of 2020, over 80% of its population identify as Catholic.
- The most common mode of transportation in the Philippines is the Jeepneys. It is estimated that in Manilla, there are over 50,000 operating in the city daily.
Available Mobile Apps
Many of the top-tier bookmakers we mentioned, 22Bet, Melbet and 1xBet, offer above-average quality mobile platforms to access their betting services. Other than slight variances in their appearances, layout and unique qualities, each delivers a reliable point of access, and similarly, a memorable experience.
For Filipino’s wanting a full and complete selection of sports betting features, bookmakers have optimised their apps to offer an undifferentiated experience. This is in respect to the type of betting products, payment methods, support services and unique features each inherently offers. Beyond the usual limitations that come from mobile devices, the availability and downloading of mobile apps provides a viable solution for savvy Filipino punters wanting the most from the time spent betting via their mobiles.
Supported Payment Methods
Whenever depositing at a Filipino online casino, the support payment methods make the difference, especially when claiming a betting sites bonus. As there are limited geographical restrictions within the Philippines, the most commonly support methods include credit cards, wire transfers, e-wallets, prepaid and debit cards. Similarly, many Philippine online casinos accept cryptocurrencies as well as money orders.
In terms of deposit and withdrawal limits, transactions are carried out using the Philippine Peso. This applies to deposits, as it does to withdrawals, with transactional times varying based on the selected payment method.
The taxation laws relating to gambling winnings are somewhat vague. Essentially, they state any income generated as a result of gambling over PHP 10,000 is taxable at a rate of 10% and for generated income over PHB 10,001 the taxable is 20%. However, the Philippine government is notorious for not enforcing its gambling taxation laws, and likewise, prosecuting those who fail to pay tax on income from gambling.
FAQs
Are all bookmakers operating in the Philippines licensed?
The majority of bookmakers are licensed and operate legally and responsibly. Those that are not should be avoided at all costs.
How can I tell who the top bookmakers are in the Philippines?
As many top bookmakers are operating in the Philippines, your best option is to check out our list of approved Philippine bookmakers.
Is it safe to register with new betting sites in the Philippines?
Yes, all betting sites operating within the Philippines are licensed and therefore safe to register with.
Which are the best online casinos in the Philippines?
There are many, and therefore it is difficult to suggest one over the other. Although, you can refer to our list of online casinos as all are awarded a star rating.
As a Filipino, will I be able to play in my native tongue?
Due to the extensive number of languages spoken in the Philippines, some online casinos will offer Filipina. However, as English is a commonly taught language in the Philippines, it can be selected as an alternative.
When I withdrawal, will tax be deducted from my winnings?
No, few bookmakers and casinos operating in the Philippines will not deduct taxes from your winnings.
On average, how long will it take to receive payment of winnings?
On average, most bookmakers or casinos will process withdrawal payments within 1 to 3 days. However, this depends on the bookmaker or casino and their withdrawal processing policies.
Final Comments
The Philippine government, by design, has given people the freedom to engage in a wide range of gambling-related entertainment products. This is perfect for Filipinos, considering the previous instability that was rampant in their country that naturally gravitated to their feelings of freedom while using the internet. The resultant change in attitude has seen e-commerce taking hold in a country that is predominantly seen as financially challenged, a fact disputed by its growing economy and its citizens increase in expendable income.
Moreover, it has allowed for a large number of gambling operators to enter the space, offer their services, and, equally important, provide employment opportunities that ultimately contribute to the well-being of the Philippine nation and its people.
