The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is calling for the country's Gaming regulatory framework to evolve alongside rapid advances in technology, with artificial intelligence emerging as one of the key areas shaping the industry's future.

Speaking at the CiG iDEA Summit 2026 in Manila on September 14, PAGCOR Electronic Gaming Licensing Department Assistant Vice President Atty. Jessa Mariz Fernandez said regulatory frameworks must keep pace with technological developments, particularly AI.

AI brings new opportunities and regulatory considerations

As digital Gaming platforms increasingly adopt new technologies, AI is becoming relevant across areas such as data analysis, platform management, compliance monitoring and user protection.

The development also means regulators need to continuously review whether existing frameworks remain suitable for an increasingly technology-driven market.

PAGCOR's comments form part of a broader discussion around the future development of the Philippines' regulated online Gaming ecosystem.

The CiG iDEA Summit brought together regulators, operators, suppliers and other industry stakeholders to discuss market structure, compliance, sustainability, technology and future growth across the Asia-Pacific region.

Strengthening oversight of the digital market

Another important challenge facing the Philippines is the continued presence of unauthorized online platforms.

PAGCOR has been strengthening its digital oversight infrastructure in response. The regulator previously announced plans to launch an official application before the end of 2026 that will help users identify and access licensed platforms. PAGCOR said the initiative is intended to support user protection and reduce engagement with unauthorized services. Philippine Information Agency

The regulator also operates PAGCOR Guarantee, an online verification resource designed to help users identify authorized Gaming websites.

These initiatives indicate that technology is increasingly being used not only by Gaming businesses, but also by regulators seeking to improve market transparency and compliance.

Regulation moves alongside technological development

The Philippine market has undergone significant regulatory changes as digital Gaming continues to expand.

For regulators, the challenge is increasingly about creating frameworks that can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining clear compliance standards and sustainable industry development.

The CiG iDEA Summit also addressed areas including the Philippines' new regulatory framework, B2B suppliers, platform operating models and the long-term sustainability of the regulated online Gaming sector.

As AI and other technologies become more integrated into digital Gaming infrastructure, the relationship between technology, regulation and compliance is likely to become an increasingly important part of the industry's development.