Best Betting Sites in Philippines 2024
Gambling, especially betting, is a massive industry in the Philippines. The country has a strong affinity for risk-taking and games, making reputable online bookmakers a surefire hit. However, if you're unsure where and how to place your bets, refer to this page and article for a comprehensive list of bookmakers in the Philippines.
Our list of top betting sites is constantly changing, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of the betting industry. However, we evaluate each bookmaker using the same criteria.
Our top betting sites are carefully selected based on player reviews, sportsbook reputation, available payment methods, betting lines, odds, and more. Be sure to take a look at our recommended sites.
Best Betting Sites in the Philippines 2024
Top Online Betting Regulation in the Philippines
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Licensing requirements | All online betting operators must obtain a license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to operate legally in the country. |
| Age restrictions | Only persons who are 21 years of age or older are allowed to place bets on online betting sites. |
| Responsible gambling measures | Online betting operators must implement responsible gambling measures, such as self-exclusion options, to help prevent problem gambling. |
| Anti-money laundering (AML) | Online betting operators are subject to strict AML regulations, which include customer identification and record-keeping requirements. They must also report suspicious transactions to the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). |
| Taxation | Online betting operators are subject to a 5% tax on their gross gaming revenue collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). |
| Advertising restrictions | Online betting operators are prohibited from advertising their services to minors and engaging in misleading advertising. They must also include responsible gambling messages in their advertisements. |
As previously mentioned, the Philippines has a significant betting industry. In 2020, the country spent 11.6 billion ₱ on sports betting (equivalent to 603 ₱ per person) and 25.8 billion on racing (equal to 1340 ₱ per person). These figures establish the Philippines as a global leader in per capita betting.
It's no surprise that the Philippines has regulations in place for betting and gambling. However, the rules can be complex because the Philippines is a federation. Each state in the country has its jurisdiction over gambling and betting. Specifically, there are six state gambling commissions (New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Philippines, Tasmania, and Western Philippines) and two major mainland commissions (Philippines Capital Territory and Northern Territory). Additionally, the Philippines has an Interactive Gambling Act that applies to all in-state jurisdictions. This act was established in 2001.
The regulations for betting vary across different states, resulting in confident bookies being unavailable in certain regions. However, the advantage is that online betting is permitted in all forms of the Philippines, allowing every player to access online bookies.
Best Sports Betting sites Philippines
It is a fact that the betting market in the Philippines is distinct and does not align with the global betting industry. As a result, the top 10 sports in the Philippines are pretty distinctive. Therefore, what do Filipino bettors prefer? The list below provides the answer.
- Horse racing, greyhound racing, and trots are highly popular among bettors in the Philippines. They enjoy placing bets on both local races and significant international events. Racing accounts for over 65% of the total betting volume turnover, prompting regulators to distinguish it from sports betting. Consequently, sports betting websites must obtain separate licenses for racing and sports. Undoubtedly, racing is the most favored sport for betting in the Philippines.
- AFL is a popular sport in the Philippines, with millions of bets placed on it from March to October each year. Betting sites offer a variety of lines and attractive odds to cater to the audience's preferences. The playoffs are typically the busiest time for AFL betting.
- Cricket is a trendy sport in the Philippines, with over 1.5 million registered cricketers. Unsurprisingly, the sport is also a favorite among bettors, particularly during Test matches featuring the Baggy Greens. Players can also bet on the Big Bash League, as sportsbooks cover it widely.
- Rugby is a highly sought-after sport among bettors in the Philippines, with the NRL and international rugby taking top priority. Bookmakers provide a range of popular markets, including money lines, over/under, handicaps, and even player statistics.
- Although the NFL is still lagging behind the AFL, it is gradually gaining traction in the Philippines, particularly since the country became a part of the league. With the ability to place bets of 10,000 ₱ or more on NFL games, there is certainly a growing interest in American football.
- Football, or soccer, is popular among local bettors who focus on the A-league and international matches featuring the Socceroos. However, the big European leagues and the UCL are not as popular. Bookies typically provide a standard range of markets for betting.
- Esports is arguably the most rapidly expanding sector globally, and the Philippines has been swept up in this trend, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. The top bookmakers in the Philippines typically offer coverage of major tournaments in popular games such as DOTA 2, CS: GO, LoL, and Starcraft.
- Mixed martial arts (MMA) has gained immense popularity in the Philippines, with over ten major UFC events taking place in the country during the 2010s. Fighters like Volkanovski and Whittaker have emerged as some of the biggest UFC stars today, further fueling the interest in MMA. Bookmakers have also taken notice of this trend, with sports betting apps featuring promotions and advertisements for UFC events.
- Basketball remains a popular sport, with NBL maintaining its leadership position. However, NBA and international basketball also garner some attention. Certain players even place bets on Euroleague, which features many Filipino players.
- Tennis is a moderately popular sport among clients of sportsbooks in the Philippines, although it is not as widely enjoyed as in Europe. The sport experiences its highest level of interest during the Philippines' swing of tournaments, which takes place in January and February, with the Philippines Open being the most significant draw.
- Baseball is a noteworthy sport that deserves recognition. Although it may not be as popular as cricket, Filipino bettors are still interested. This is due to the extensive regular season, which leaves little room for other options.
To put it briefly, the Philippines has a strong affinity for racing and other sports. The popularity of racing betting in the country can be attributed to its deep-rooted gambling culture. Additionally, the fast-paced nature of races translates to prompt payouts for the victorious bettors.
Top Betting sites in the Philippines
Discover the leading betting platforms in the Philippines and access detailed reviews of each sportsbook to assist you in selecting the ideal website or application. The following is a comprehensive list:
Sportsbet is a bookmaker that embodies the essence of the Philippines. It boasts an extensive selection of popular sporting events from local and international scenes, with over 30 categories, including Politics, TV Shows, and Entertainment. The live betting and racing sections are impressive, with hundreds of races available daily. Sportsbet also offers unique features such as Same game multi, same race multi, and BYO BETS. For those who want to bet with or against friends, the "Bet with Mates" option is available. The website and mobile app are both user-friendly and technically sound.
Bet365, a renowned betting brand, has been operating in the Philippines since 2002 and has garnered a massive following due to its attractive betting offers and overall presentation. The platform offers diverse sports and markets and thousands of top-notch streams. Additionally, Bet365 boasts two exclusive totes and punters who enjoy parlays can take advantage of the bet builder feature, which allows them to add up to 12 selections from a single AFL match.
Playup is a recently established bookmaker, having been founded in 2019. Despite being a newcomer, it shows great potential with its extensive racing coverage and impressive fixed-odds markets. While its overall betting coverage may not be as comprehensive as Bet365, its mobile app is user-friendly, and its fantasy sports section is exceptional.
Bookmaker PH is a sportsbook that shouldn't be overlooked despite its straightforward name. Filipino bettors highly regard it due to its low margin on popular markets. Additionally, Bookmaker offers a range of practical betting features, including multiples within the same game or race, live commentary, and cashout. They even have their own Mastercard payment card to streamline transactions.
Unibet is a renowned global brand that has a rich history of success. Its roots can be traced back to Denmark, where it was established two decades ago. Since then, it has been thriving in local markets. In 2012, Unibet expanded its reach to the Philippines and had no plans of leaving anytime soon. Filipino punters are hooked on Unibet's live odds and live-betting section. The platform offers a wide range of live streams and popular markets where you can place bets with substantial money. Unibet boasts over 30 categories, an extensive selection of markets for popular events, and an engaging blog.
Several noteworthy companies include Starsbet, Neds, Betfair, Ladbrokes, Bluebet, BetStar, and Pointsbet. Please visit our website for a complete list of online bookmakers in the Philippines.
Mobile Betting in the Philippines
Most bettors in the Philippines opt to place their bets using their smartphones, accounting for 65% of all bets made in the country. This method is considered more efficient and quicker, making it the preferred play method. Therefore, every bookmaker in the Philippines must have a sports betting app. Approximately 90% of all legal companies provide mobile betting software for iOS and Android, as well as mobile versions.
Betting high-quality applications in the Philippines typically comes with many beneficial features and options.
- Live betting with match centers.
- Real-time commentary or live streaming.
- Option to withdraw funds.
- The capability to establish notifications.
- Bet with just one click.
- Adaptable wagering ticket.
- The payment section is user-friendly and straightforward to navigate.
- Engage in a real-time conversation with our customer support team through our live chat feature.
- Top picks
- Sections for statistics and results.
Additionally, the mobile application must be speedy and easy to navigate. Moreover, numerous users seek out the top-rated horse racing app solely in the Philippines. This is why several apps feature a distinct section dedicated to racing.
Selecting the finest mobile sportsbook in the Philippines is no simple task. However, we have evaluated the mobile applications of each bookmaker and compiled a list of the best ones. You are welcome to examine it. To learn more, peruse our betting app reviews.
Payment Methods in Philippines Bookies
Top bookmakers in the Philippines typically provide various payment options to simplify their customers' experience. While the list of choices may vary among bookies, one constant is that all legitimate betting agents transact solely in ₱. However, it is possible to deposit funds in a different currency, but it will eventually be converted to ₱.
Below are the most frequently used payment methods:
- Debit cards;
- PayPal;
- Deposit only for Poli;
- The deposit can be made through Bpay only;
- Paysafecard is a payment method;
- Skrill;
- Neteller is a digital payment service;
- Transfer of funds through a bank;
- Cheques;
- Cash cards and vouchers for bookmakers.
The most commonly used payment method among players is credit cards, as it is a familiar instrument in daily life. E-wallets such as Skrill, Neteller, and Paypal are also good options, but they come with fees and are not supported by all bookmakers. Most players prefer to transfer their winnings to a card or bank account, which is possible with big brands like Bet365, Sportsbet, Neds, BetStar, and Ladbrokes, who offer their cash cards. This is the fastest withdrawal option, as players can withdraw their money from any local ATM or use the cash card as a standard credit card. However, this method has disadvantages, such as fees and limits.
Crucial information: Starting August 2021, credit cards are no longer accepted as a deposit method in PH.
Top 10 bookies at Philippines Bookmakers
| Bookmaker | Welcome Bonus | Deposit Bonus | Loyalty Program | Referral Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22Bet | 100% first deposit bonus up to 18,000 PHP | 100% bonus up to 18,000 PHP for second and third deposits | Yes, earn points and exchange them for bonuses and free bets | Yes, refer a friend and receive a bonus of up to 5,000 PHP |
| Betway | 100% first deposit bonus up to 5,000 PHP | N/A | Yes, earn points and exchange them for bonuses and free bets | Yes, refer a friend and receive a bonus of up to 500 PHP |
| 1xBet | 100% first deposit bonus up to 7,500 PHP | 100% bonus up to 15,000 PHP for second and third deposits | Yes, earn points and exchange them for bonuses and free bets | Yes, refer a friend and receive a bonus of up to 5,000 PHP |
| Pinnacle | N/A | N/A | Yes, earn cashback on all bets and exchange them for bonuses and free bets | N/A |
| Dafabet | 100% first deposit bonus up to 5,000 PHP | 50% bonus up to 10,000 PHP for second and third deposits | Yes, earn points and exchange them for bonuses and free bets | Yes, refer a friend and receive a bonus of up to 2,500 PHP |
Are you searching for bookies sites in the Philippines with bonuses and promotions? Unfortunately, we have some disappointing news for you. As of March 2019, legal sportsbooks in the Philippines are prohibited from providing any form of advertising. The Federal Government of the Philippines imposed this restriction in response to the growing number of individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
You won't come across any complimentary wagers or deposit incentives. However, most betting websites still have a "Promotion" section, which is often vacant or highlights features such as cashouts or same-race multies. Due to the current prohibition, bookies have no leeway regarding bonuses. At present, the only promotions available are early payouts and enhanced odds.
How to choose a sportsbook in the Philippines?
Have you not yet placed a bet in the Philippines, or are you simply searching for the ideal place to play? Utilize our suggestions and advice to discover the perfect sportsbook for you.
- It's essential to be clear on your objectives. If you're seeking a recreational experience, opting for reputable and established brands such as Sportsbet or Neds is wise. However, if you're a serious punter, prioritize bookmakers with high limits and low margins.
- Regarding online betting, it's essential to prioritize reputation and safety. It's best only to use bookmakers with a trustworthy history and avoid those with questionable backgrounds. If you're considering a new website, verify their license and ownership. However, if you're using a well-known global brand, there's no need to be concerned. Additionally, take the time to read reviews from other players to gain insight into the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
- Chances. It's essential to pay attention to the quality of the odds, even if you're playing for fun. Don't let your laziness cost you extra money. Take the time to compare betting odds from popular bookmakers. A 95-98% payout range for pre-match and 93-96% for live betting is considered good.
- A comprehensive range of sports and markets is crucial. Evaluating the bookmaker's performance in the specific categories and needs that matter to you is essential. It is irrelevant if the bookie provides Sumo if they have a limited selection of AFL, tennis, or rugby markets.
- A reliable and efficient platform should support the live betting section of a bookie's website. This includes timely updates of odds, including match centers, live-streaming capabilities, and the ability for users to leave comments. A high-quality bookie will prioritize these features to enhance the user experience.
- The platform, whether a website or an app, should be user-friendly, speedy, and equipped with practical functionalities. If the platform makes you uneasy, it could negatively impact your performance, particularly when engaging in live betting.
- Discover the range of payment options and select a bookmaker that offers hassle-free transactions. Familiarize yourself with the available payment methods.
- Customer assistance and commitment are essential qualities of a reputable bookmaker. It is imperative to have a team of proficient agents available through Live Chat, phone, and e-mail support. Additionally, a website with a comprehensive FAQ section is a positive indication. Evaluating the agents' demeanor, expertise, and willingness to assist customers is crucial.
Our suggestion is to open multiple accounts and play on several bookmakers at the same time. Doing so lets you compare and choose the most favorable odds from a more comprehensive selection of markets.
How to Bet in the Philippines: Tutorial
After learning about online betting in the Philippines, you are ready to take the next step and place your first bet. Starting to play is a simple process and requires no particular actions. Just adhere to the instructions provided below:
- Select one or multiple bookmakers from the provided list and proceed to their respective website(s).
- To initiate the process, click the "Registration" or "Sign-Up" buttons.
- Please complete the registration form by providing all the requested details, such as your name, email, phone number, address, and other relevant information.
- Please verify your registration by clicking on the link provided in the email or entering the SMS code.
- You can make a deposit using any of the available payment methods.
- Navigate to either the live or pre-match section, select from various events, and proceed to place your desired wager or wagers.
- You can withdraw money if you desire.
Doesn't it sound simple? Well, in the Philippines, it is. Just keep in mind that you can begin placing bets at the age of 18. Before your initial withdrawal, every sportsbook will require verification. You'll need to provide pictures of your documents. Occasionally, a bookmaker may request a video conference to confirm your identity.
Frequently asked Questions
Author: Vadim Rotar
