The evolving Philippine online casino industry comes with new regulatory challenges. The main role is taken by the way players do their transactions. This article examines the two main payment systems involved - GCash and cryptocurrencies. Find out how they are compared under the latest BSP framework and what Filipino players should know about them.
In August this year, the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) issued a directive requiring all supervised financial institutions to remove in-app links and icons redirecting users to gambling sites within 48 hours. This change has affected numerous platforms, including many online casinos using GCash on Online-Gambling.com and similar review sites. GCash officially suspended gaming access via GLife at 8:00 p.m. on August 16.
The directive targets in-app "access" rather than payments themselves
Standard web-based checkouts remain functional
The change creates additional friction but doesn't prohibit gambling transactions
GCash remains the dominant payment method in the Philippines despite the new restrictions. The e-wallet now operates under a modified framework where direct in-app gambling links and GLife mini-apps have been removed. What remains unchanged is the near-instant deposit capability through standard checkouts.
The payment flow now requires access to the casino sites directly rather than through wallet apps. According to the GCash Help Center, "While GLife gaming access is suspended, standard payment functionality to licensed casinos remains operational through proper web channels, subject to existing verification and monitoring protocols."
The OGPS draft suggests GCash payments may soon face additional restrictions related to daily transfer caps, affecting players who reach 80% of their daily transaction limits. Operating hours for gambling-related transactions will also be limited. These restrictions aim to reduce problem gambling behaviors while still accommodating recreational players. Industry reports indicate that most casino sites in the country have already begun preparations for these changes.
Cryptocurrency transactions remain largely unaffected by the in-app link directive, though they fall under broader AML/KYT requirements. Crypto payments offer higher transfer limits, network-dependent settlement times, and greater privacy when it comes to financial tracking. Recent data shows that crypto technology adoption among Filipino gamblers has increased by 37%.
Nearly 60% of all crypto casino transactions in the Philippines are conducted via USDT accounts. This shift reflects the growing comfort with these new digital assets, which is a strategic response to tightening the existing e-wallet regulations. A great example is the faster blockchain networks like Solana and Polygon, introducing new options for quicker confirmation times. Still, Bitcoin is often the main choice for larger transactions.
When evaluating these popular payment methods for casino use, it is good to know several things:
Crypto takes anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour for deposits, but withdrawals are much faster. Most sites let you move larger amounts, too.
GCash deposits hit your account instantly, but withdrawals take 1-5 days to process. Your limits depend on whether you've got a basic or fully verified account.
Traditional banking is the slowest option - 1-3 days for deposits and up to a week for withdrawals.
Crypto transactions can't be reversed, which protects casinos but puts pressure on you to get everything right. Most Filipinos aren't that familiar with wallet management.
GCash has that central security system we're all used to, plus it's easier for most locals to understand.
Both options have gotten much better at detecting suspicious activity compared to a few years ago.
Crypto mostly gets checked when you convert pesos at exchanges.
GCash will face those new OGPS restrictions coming soon.
The entire market is moving toward standardized compliance rules.
The removal of in-app gambling links creates new UX challenges for casinos and players. Your time at a legal casino requires direct access to the websites, selecting a payment method at checkout, completing authentication, and returning to confirm transactions. Leading gambling sites have responded with technical adjustments to streamline the new payment flow.
Now, there are browser-based push notifications to guide you through the authentication process and automatic redirection back to the casino site post-payment. Some have also developed SMS confirmation systems that help bridge the gap between payment authorization and transaction completion.
Both payment systems will be facing the upcoming OGPS framework and its standardized risk controls. That includes closely monitoring high-value transactions. PAGCOR is all in regarding stricter regulations rather than outright prohibition of online gambling. The Philippine government aims to wind down offshore certificates while maintaining local licensing.
According to the latest market research, the Philippine online gambling market is expected to reach about $1.2 billion by the end of 2025. The regulated operators will be capturing approximately 68% of this value. This growth course supports the case for measured regulation rather than prohibitive policies.
To get the idea behind the new gambling-related payment situation in the Philippines, here's what you should remember:
Expect an additional step when making deposits.
Access casino websites directly before making payments.
Don't forget to complete your account verification.
Be aware of the upcoming daily transfer limits under OGPS rules.
Try to fit your gambling sessions in the set window between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Stick with stablecoins like USDT to avoid price swings.
Double-check wallet addresses in advance.
If new to crypto, start small until you get used to it.
Explore newer and faster networks, like Solana or Polygon.
The BSP isn't done reshaping how players engage in online gambling activities in the Philippines. GCash and crypto will both survive, but GCash users definitely got the raw deal with the mentioned app restrictions. PAGCOR and the BSP aren't trying to kill the industry; they seem to be creating a more structured system that protects players while allowing the market to grow.
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