COVID-19's Disruption and Recovery in the Philippine Casino Market

How COVID-19 Changed Everything for Philippine Casinos

The COVID-19 pandemic brought the Philippine gambling industry to a standstill. From the once-bustling halls of City of Dreams Manila to the colorful gaming floors of Okada Manila, operations were forced to shut down almost overnight.
Here’s a closer look at how the pandemic reshaped the Philippine gambling industry:
- Temporary closures: All major land-based casinos suspended operations during lockdowns.
- Job losses: Thousands of workers in casinos, hotels, and entertainment sectors were displaced.
- Revenue decline: PAGCOR reported a huge drop in gross gaming revenue in 2020 compared to 2019.
The disruption was immediate, but it also accelerated transformations that were already brewing beneath the surface.
The Rapid Online Gaming Surge

With physical venues closed, players quickly shifted to digital platforms. This rapid online gaming surge introduced a new era for the industry.
- e-Sabong and Online Betting: PAGCOR expanded the licensing of online gambling operators.
- Casino Apps and Virtual Games: Platforms like Jiligames offered Filipinos ways to enjoy casino experiences from the safety of their homes.
- Wider Audience Reach: Online gaming attracted not just traditional players but also younger demographics who preferred mobile gaming.
This migration is well-documented in discussions about how COVID-19 shaped online gambling trends, revealing that the shift to digital wasn't just a temporary solution—it reshaped player expectations and casino business models permanently.
Implementation of Health Protocols Upon Reopening
When casinos were allowed to reopen in 2021 under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) guidelines, they had to adapt to strict new rules:
- Limited capacity: Only a fraction of gaming tables and slot machines operated at any given time.
- Mandatory masks and face shields: Both players and staff had to comply.
- Contactless transactions: Casinos like Solaire Resort heavily invested in touchless technology.
- Health screening: Thermal scanners and health declaration forms became the norm.
Operators such as Jiligames also introduced enhanced safety features in their digital offerings, providing players with secure and sanitized gaming experiences online.
Ongoing Industry Recovery Efforts

The Philippine casino industry continues its recovery with innovative strategies and new market targets:
- Integrated Resorts as "Staycation" Destinations: Resorts World Manila and others offered staycation packages to lure domestic tourists.
- Expansion of Online Offerings: PAGCOR authorized several land-based operators to run online gaming activities to offset lower walk-in traffic.
- Partnerships and New Ventures: Brands like Jiligames collaborate with developers and tech companies to roll out fresher, more interactive casino content.
The surge of convenient mobile gambling platforms in the Philippines is part of these ongoing industry recovery efforts, proving that adaptation to mobile-first experiences is key.
Government support through strategic easing of restrictions and vaccine rollouts has also contributed to the slow but steady bounce-back.
The Future of Philippine Gambling Post-Pandemic
As we move forward, it's clear that the industry will never return to its pre-pandemic ways. The lessons learned from COVID-19—particularly the need for flexibility and digital transformation—are now permanent pillars.
Casinos must continuously evolve by:
- Blending physical and digital experiences
- Prioritizing health and safety innovations
- Exploring new gaming technologies and customer engagement methods
The discussion on the latest trends in the online casino industry highlights how brands like Jiligames are leading the way in this new environment, making the future of Philippine gambling more dynamic and resilient than ever.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Casino bonuses are a key part of the online gambling experience, and they come in various forms. Here are some of the best types of casino bonuses that players often find valuable:
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Welcome Bonuses: These are typically offered to new players when they sign up and make their first deposit. They often match a percentage of your deposit, potentially doubling your playing funds.
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No Deposit Bonuses: These bonuses are given without the need for a deposit. They're a great way to try out a casino without risking your own money, although they usually come with strict wagering requirements.
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Free Spins: Commonly part of a welcome package or offered in promotions, free spins are a hit with slot game enthusiasts. They allow players to spin the reels on slot games for free.
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Cashback Bonuses: These bonuses offer a rebate on losses over a certain period. For example, a casino might offer a 10% cashback on all losses incurred during a week.
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Loyalty Programs and VIP Bonuses: Regular players can benefit from loyalty programs, earning points for their play which can be converted into bonuses or used for other rewards. VIP bonuses offer higher value to high rollers.
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Refer-a-Friend Bonuses: Some casinos reward players for referring friends to the platform. Once the referred friend signs up and deposits, the player receives a bonus.
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High Roller Bonuses: Targeted at players who deposit and wager large sums, these bonuses are larger and often have more favorable terms than standard bonuses.
When choosing a casino bonus, it's crucial to read the terms and conditions. Pay special attention to wagering requirements, maximum cashout limits, and game restrictions to ensure that the bonus is fair and aligns with your playing style. Always gamble responsibly and within your financial means.
The "best" live casino game to win can vary based on a player's skill level, experience, and personal preferences. However, some games are known for having better odds or a lower house edge, which can increase your chances of winning. Here are a few popular live casino games often considered favorable for players:
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Blackjack: Known for having one of the lowest house edges in the casino, especially if played with basic strategy. The game involves skill and decision-making, which can influence your chances of winning.
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Baccarat: Particularly popular in Asian markets, baccarat has a relatively low house edge, especially on the 'banker' bet. It's a game of chance, with no skill or strategy involved.
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Roulette: European roulette, with a single zero, offers a lower house edge compared to American roulette, which has both a single and a double zero. Betting on outside chances like red/black or even/odd gives you nearly a 50% chance of winning.
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Craps: Certain bets in craps offer good odds, such as the pass line and come bets. The game can be a bit complex for beginners but rewarding once you understand the rules and strategies.
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Poker Games: Games like Texas Hold'em or Caribbean Stud involve skill and strategy, which can improve your chances of winning if you're experienced.
Remember, while these games might offer better odds, the outcome in casino games is largely based on chance, and there is no guaranteed way to ensure a win. It's also important to gamble responsibly and within your means, regardless of the game you choose to play.
Identifying the "most secure" online casino can be subjective and varies over time, as online casinos continuously update their security measures. However, there are key features to look for when determining the security of an online casino:
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SSL Encryption: Look for casinos that use SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption. This technology secures the connection between your browser and the casino, protecting your personal and financial information from interception.
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Fairness and Game Integrity: Reputable casinos have their games regularly tested for fairness by independent agencies like eCOGRA (eCommerce Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance), ensuring that the games are not rigged and have fair odds.
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Secure Payment Methods: Secure casinos offer a variety of well-known and trusted payment methods, such as credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers, ensuring safe and reliable financial transactions.
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Positive Reputation: Read reviews and check player feedback. A secure casino will have a positive reputation in the online gambling community.
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Responsible Gambling Features: A commitment to responsible gambling is a sign of a secure and ethical casino. Features might include self-exclusion options, links to gambling help organizations, and tools to control spending.
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Customer Support: Good customer support that is easily accessible, responsive, and helpful is another indicator of a casino's reliability and security.
While these features can help identify secure online casinos, it's important to conduct personal research and choose a casino that suits your specific needs and complies with the legal requirements of your jurisdiction. Remember, even the most secure online gambling should always be approached with caution and responsibility.