Betting sites in the Philippines have surged in popularity, capitalizing on a favorable gambling environment. The country is one of the few in Southeast Asia that has a licensing system. Over 12,000,000 players join local brands or one of the dozens of online sports betting sites for their action.
Opening up the market comes with a catch for punters. Progressive taxation on winnings and strict KYC are the main reasons why locals opt for international bookmakers. These, along with the plethora of Bonuses available, make for an attractive package that can’t be overlooked.
On this page, we will examine the gambling scene and discuss the upsides and risks of playing on offshore sports betting sites. But first, here is a list of the best online sports betting sites in the Philippines.
| Bookmaker Comparison Category | Local Licensed | International |
| Licensing | PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) | Malta, Curacao, Kahnawake and other international regulators |
| Payment Methods | Debit cards, credit cards, bank wires, GCash and ECPayv | Debit Cards, Credit Cards, E-wallets, Cryptos, 30+ Other Options |
| Language | Fully localised for Filipino bettors (language, license) | Many sites support the Filipino language |
| KYC Verification | Mandatory | Depending on the Bookmaker |
| Taxation | 8% (winnings over ₱5,000) | No Taxation |
As you can see, international Philippines betting sites offer no tax, more payment options, and fewer KYC restrictions. On the other hand, local sportsbooks provide higher levels of security and a more straightforward dispute resolution procedure, as you can contact PAGCOR directly.
Full List Of Sports Betting Sites In The Philippines
How We Rate The Best Philippines Betting Sites
With the rapid expansion of the gambling market, an increasing number of brands are vying for attention. To help you make an informed choice, here are some crucial factors to evaluate before signing up for betting sites accounts.
Reliability and terms
We study every gambling platform’s trustworthiness in terms of the license that backs it, responsible gaming measures, and user feedback.
This is to include only the most trusted sites on our list. We review the terms and conditions, looking out for unfair rules, and highlighting every red flag in a sports betting site.
Online sports betting markets
Whether you’re a casual or seasoned bettor, selecting a platform with extensive coverage is essential. Make sure your favorite sports are available, along with top odds.
Additionally, note that online betting sites in the Philippines do not offer odds on cockfighting or sepak takraw, so plan accordingly. Market diversity is equally important. Avoid sites that offer only limited betting options.
Live betting experience
Pre-match wagering is just the beginning, especially since many Filipino bettors prefer live sports betting, where they can watch the matches and place bets on winners, handicaps, and totals, among other options.
You should opt for a bookmaker that provides an extensive in-play section, with competitive odds, and an array of sports betting tools, such as in-play BetBuilder or advanced Cash Out functionalities.
Payment options
Funding your account should be hassle-free. In the Philippines, commonly accepted payment methods include debit and credit cards, as well as bank wires.
However, keep in mind that locally licensed operators typically do not support cryptocurrency transactions. If you prefer sports betting sites with crypto, you’ll need to explore offshore sportsbooks that offer secure transactions on multiple wallets.
Localization & user experience
While all PAGCOR-licensed bookmakers cater to the locals’ needs, namely language and payment options, many users prefer signing up with international sportsbooks to take advantage of the looser restrictions and welcome bonuses.
Having said that, very few sites support the local currency. Offshore brands also deliver better UI/UX and faster websites. Occasionally, some offer downloadable mobile apps with a user-friendly interface.
Customer support
The outstanding support available in English, Tagalog, and even Chinese is worth mentioning on locally licensed best sports betting sites. A significant portion of the population is employed in customer support for gambling companies.
On the other hand, international sports betting sites often have 24/7 live chat agents. To get a high rating in our books, an operator must be able to provide multilingual support with human agents throughout the day.
Lucrative welcome bonuses
Many of the listed gambling sites on this list have the best welcome bonuses high-value promotions, such as free bets, and more. You can browse through their initial deposit bonuses on this page, but we also have individual reviews for each online betting site we vouch for.
So make sure to read about the wagering requirements and continuous bonuses if you want to make the most of your money.
Which Are The 5 Most Popular Betting Sites In the Philippines
1xbet - One of the best bookmakers in the Philippines
1xbet is hands down the favorite of all sharp bettors, as it delivers best odds, even in comparison to other best sports betting sites running the same software. The multi-licensed bookmaker is available in English and Filipino languages, among others, and you can select PHP as the main currency.
Featured leagues from the USA and Europe have great odds, boosted up to 98%, while matches from the PBL have many alternative wagers and combos. You can even bet on local athletes’ player props in national tournaments, such as the FIBA Asia Cup and World Cup.
Live Streaming is available in HD for live betting puroses, and you can watch games on your phone from the application. It's one of the best betting apps, compatible with Android and iOS devices. The cashier accepts cards, cryptocurrencies, and local payments like GCash, PayMaya, and Help2Pay.
22bet - Global online sportsbook with great betting options
22bet is a well-established online operator, renowned for its extensive range of betting markets and consistent coverage of betting events across over 55 categories. It offers some of the best odds, on which you can take advantage of promotions, including first deposit bonus, free bets, daily boosted prices, and enhanced ACCAs.
You can use tools like Cash Out, Edit Bet, and Multi View, although the last one is not available on the small mobile screens. Other than that, all the onsite betting features can be accessed through the 22bet mobile betting app.
The website can be configured in Tagalog with the Philippines’ peso as the main betting account currency. You can transfer money with multiple payment methods, including cards, cryptocurrencies, bank transfers, Neteller, and a few local payments.
Mystake - Highest-value bonuses in PHP
The best betting sites adopt the Upgaming software, but Mystake is the most established one. The foreign sportsbook operates under a Curacao license and offers the local currency, as well as Tagalog, for a more immersive betting experience and excellent live betting.
It has a lucrative promotion system, with an above-average welcome bonus, and continuous free bets after every 3 stakes you place. You can claim any of the promotions, especially first deposit bonuses, by local bank transfers or using PayMaya, GCash, Neteller, or any of the 10 highest-capped crypto tokens.
Megapari - Play on an award-winning platform
Megapari is a new bookmaker compared to the other sports betting sites running the BetB2B platform. Still, it has over 5 years of experience, and its popularity has skyrocketed in recent years due to its good reputation.
The online sportsbook also offers some of the best odds along with ongoing promotions, welcome bonus, free bets and more, allowing you to skim profits from betting on local matches. Competitions like the English Premier League in football, or the NBA, have all the betting markets you can think of, from outrights to stakes with 1-minute intervals.
The advanced tools are widely accessible on most of the 50+ categories, including esports online betting. Those include Cash Out, Quickbet, and Live Streaming. One of its most essential aspects is that it caters to Filipino players with traditional banking methods and a diverse range of mobile solutions and cryptos.
Expect high transaction limits, fast withdrawals, and responsive customer service. This also applies if you download the Megapari betting app, which is compatible with all mobile devices.
Bet365 - world’s most popular sports betting brand
Bet365 deserves a mention as one of the best bookmakers globally gets many search hits in the Philippines. Unfortunately, the multi-licensed online betting site has ceased accepting local bettors. If you reside in one of the regions where it operates, you can sign up and benefit from the notorious offerings, their welcome bonuses, the free bets and other promotions.
It has impeccable coverage of football, motorsport races, and numerous other sports events from around the planet. It includes early lines on many categories, including horse racing and niche sports, with great odds.
Despite its old-school website and slow-loading pages, the bookmaker offers an exemplary betting application, which allows you to watch HD streaming and utilize Partial and Auto Cash Out in-play. The cashier is highly flexible, offering local payment methods for a large number of its users, with low minimum deposit rules.
What You Need To Know About Best Betting Sites In The Philippines?
| Active Players | Legal Age | Local Currency | Dispute Resolution |
| 12,000,000+ | 18+ | Philippine peso (₱) |
PAGCOR |
What is the history of gambling in the Philippines?
All forms of gambling in the Philippines are legal under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). The Philippine government established the gambling regulator and licensing authority in 1976, highlighting the rich gambling history in the region.
It operates under the Gaming License and Development Department (GLDD). Except for PAGCOR, there is also another gambling regulator based in the Philippines. The First Cagayan Gaming License Authority, established in 2003, is solely tasked with the issuance of licenses for offshore sportsbooks that accept players who reside outside, along with POGOs.
It is worth noting that the government has decided to cut ties with POGOs and FCLRC sites, in an effort to create a more direct framework that makes online betting locally more attractive both for players and operators.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal In The Philippines?
As mentioned above, online betting in the Philippines is legal, and punters can place bets on sites licensed by the PAGCOR, such as MSW. Offshore sportsbooks are accessible but at the risk of the player, since POGOs and First Cagayan sites are limited to foreign residents. The good news is that no penalties have been applied to players despite the prohibition, but it doesn't hurt to stay informed.
What are the tax implications in the Philippines?
When betting on local Philippine betting sites, the taxation rates are pretty high. More specifically, you will have to pay charges based on your winnings. A 2025 bill is proposing a 10% tax on online betting revenue, but for now, players still have to abide by the old taxation model outlined below:
- Winnings up to ₱5,000: No taxation
- Winnings between ₱5-10,000: 8% tax (sports and horse race bets)
- Winnings over ₱10,000: 20% tax (includes lottery and sweepstakes)
The numbers above are why most players elect to wager on offshore bookies. In addition to the bettors, local bookmakers are also subject to high taxation.
International vs. local online betting sites in the Philippines
Best sports betting sites that hold a local license are an excellent choice. They are secure, and you will not risk being detected by the authorities. However, a growing number of players have already switched to international online betting platforms in the Philippines.
Apart from the wider range of sports and markets, you can avoid the high taxation rates and also take advantage of more bonuses and promotions. When you sign up with these bookies, make sure to perform transactions with a payment method that can help you fly under the radar, like e-wallet payments or cryptocurrencies.
Can You Use Philippines Mobile Apps?
Yes, as long as your chosen bookmaker has developed one for mobile betting. However, this is not the case with most local operators. At best, you can register, claim a possible welcome bonus and play on the mobile website through your cell phone. If you want to bet online on mobile apps, it is best to choose an international sportsbook, such as 20bet or 22bet.
Here’s a list of the top sports betting apps in Philippines:
What Is The Direction Of The Philippine Sports Betting Scene?
The love for gambling in the Philippines cannot be overstated. Studies show that each year, the revenue exceeds the $3.6 billion mark. Roughly 40% of that comes from online betting. Locals prefer wagering on major sporting events, among others on basketball, cockfighting, boxing, badminton and other popular sports.
Basketball betting in the Philippines
Basketball is the most popular sport in the Philippines, deeply embedded in the culture. It is played everywhere, from professional leagues like the National Basketball Association (NBA) to neighborhood streets. The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is the first and oldest professional basketball league in Asia.
The interest does not stop there; Filipino fans love betting on basketball. This includes all the domestic leagues as well as the NBA and the top international competitions.
Cockfighting in the Philippines
Cockfighting, or sabong, is a traditional and widely practised blood sport in the Philippines. It has deep cultural and historical roots, dating back to pre-colonial times. The government regulates cockfighting, allowing it on certain days and during festivals.
With the rise of online e-sabong, the sport has evolved, though it remains controversial. However, due to the high criticism from animal rights groups, international online betting platforms in the Philippines do not offer odds on it. You can only place wagers with local bookmakers.
Betting on boxing in the Philippines
The Philippines is known for producing some of the world’s best fighters. Manny Pacquiao, a national hero, elevated the sport to global prominence, winning titles across multiple weight classes and becoming one of the greatest boxers of all time.
This also increased the gambling interest in the sport. Major boxing events, both local and international, draw massive attention and generate high betting revenues all year round.
Badminton betting in the Philippines
Badminton is a popular sport in the country, enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It is commonly played in both recreational and competitive settings, with many public and private courts available across the country.
The Philippine Badminton Association (PBA) promotes the sport at the national level. The top Philippines betting sites offer the best odds on tournaments like the Thomas Cup, the Uber Cup, the World Badminton Championships, the Badminton World Cup, as well as the Philippine Open.
Esports online betting
Young Filipino gamers have consistently been a driving force behind legendary online games, such as the crypto-based Axis Infinity; therefore, it makes sense for them to participate in esports competitions and bet on them.
Many online sportsbooks have capitalized on this, both locally and globally, offering detailed lines and wagers map-by-map. The most common categories are Dota 2, Counter-Strike, and LoL.
How To Bet Online In The Philippines - Step By Step
If you're looking to get started with online sports betting, follow this streamlined guide. You will be able to open a new betting account and begin wagering in no time:
Which Payments Do Philippines Bettors Prefer?
The country has very strict and clear laws when it comes to online gambling. This affects the payments you can or should use for your activities. For example, Paytrust88 is not used in bookies, even though it is popular in the country. Some of the best ones include the following:
Local and international transaction methods
- GCash: This is the most popular e-wallet that locals use for mobile payments. It started as a gateway for online shopping but has quickly transgressed into the online gambling world.
- PayMaya: This is an end-to-end digital payment solution with excellent versatility. The main downside is that very few online bookies have already integrated into their cashiers.
- Bank Transfers: A lot of people also deposit at local bookies directly through their bank accounts. Local establishments like BPI, Metrobank, PNB, and BDO offer high security and instant transactions in Philippine pesos. Bank transfer betting sites are renowned for their safety, but your betting activity will be shared with the bank.
- Skrill: While you can find many local e-wallets that allow you to top up your online betting account, most players prefer global ones like Skrill and Neteller. The reason is that they are accepted by all online sports betting sites, and you can perform transactions without the risk of detection. Still, Skrill bookmakers might exclude the payment from bonuses.
- Neteller: A sister company of Skrill, the two payment solutions are part of the Paysafe Group. Neteller betting sites are very common, and the payment is useful for locals looking to transact with USD or EUR, with instant access to their funds.
- Help2Pay: Very popular in Southeast Asia, Help2Pay is a cross-border, fully integrated solution. You can manage all your payments from one place, including deposits on Asian bookies like BK8.
Do Philippine betting sites allow cryptocurrencies?
Crypto trading is perfectly legal in the country and is regulated by numerous government agencies, including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). You can purchase tokens such as BTC, ETH, XRP, and SOL, as well as stablecoins through bank transfers, and later use them on your favorite betting sites.
However, you should note that PAGCOR does not allow its licensees to offer crypto to Filipinos, restricting them to traditional methods. This is why, if you want to gamble with any type of coin, you must register with offshore crypto betting sites in the Philippines.
Sports Betting In The Philippines: What Does The Future Hold?
The Philippine sports betting market in the country tightened in 2016 with the introduction of PAGCOR. After this point, any operator that does not have a license is considered illegal. In addition, locals are not allowed by law to wager on sites licensed by POGO or FCLRC.
We do not expect this situation to change any time soon. After all, PAGCOR has an agreement to remain the state’s gambling regulator until at least 2032. Nevertheless, despite the restrictions, players will still register on international Philippines betting sites to enjoy the best odds and a wider range of Asian Handicap markets.
Gambling regulations in nearby nations
- Brunei: Due to Sharia laws, gambling in the country is illegal. Unlike other countries, local authorities are actually pursuing violators and are actively trying to shut down all betting sites in Brunei. These regulations also apply to tourists, so make sure you do not break any if you live there or visit.
- Vietnam: Even though gambling is legal in the country, the new legislation of 2017 only applies to land-based casinos and sportsbooks. However, since there is no particular authority that oversees the online betting scene, players are relatively free to join any Vietnam betting sites that accept registrations.
- Singapore: The land-based and online gambling landscape in Singapore is fully regulated after the passing of the Remote Gambling Act of 2014. Users are free to sign up and register at any Singapore bookies they refer, either local or international.
Yes. All gambling activities taking place in the country are legal and regulated by PAGCOR (Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corporation). However, when it comes to illegal gambling, there are many illicit cockpits in which cockfights take place.
All gambling winnings derived from PAGCOR-licensed sites are subject to tax, no matter if you use credit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets or other payment methods. More specifically, for winnings up to ₱10.000, you should pay 8% income tax. Moreover, for winnings over ₱10.000, you must pay 20% income tax.
Cockfighting is one of the most popular gambling games in the Philippines. It has been legal since 1974 and is regulated by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB). Filipino users place their bets on cockfights regularly since sabong is an integral part of their everyday lives.
Among the various international online bookmakers that accept Filipino users, 1xBet is the one that stands out. More specifically, 1xBet Philippines offers the full range of Asian bets on popular domestic leagues such as the PBA, along with very competitive odds. Other top options include 22bet, 20bet, Betwinner, and 18bet. Filipino bettors can also try their mobile apps, for pre match betting and live betting on professional sports events.
Basketball betting, along with wagering on cockfights and boxing games, is the most popular activity in best betting sites. Except for the aforementioned sports, baseball, tennis, sepak takraw, and esports are also very popular among bettors in the Philippine online betting scene.
If you’re interested in betting on the licensed online Philippines betting sites, then the top deposit method is the local e-wallet GCash. For other methods, like direct transfers from your Neteller account, you need to look for international operators.
Yes, 1xbet has been part of the Philippines' online betting sites scene and has been accepting users for years now. It is considered as the most legit betting site, with competitive odds, great live betting coverage and has one of the top mobile apps. For more info, check our 1xbet review.









