PAGCOR licensed operators must register with the Philippines taxman

The Philippines taxman has reminded holders of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator licenses (POGOs), which service gamblers outside of the Philippines, that they are obliged to register with Philippines tax authorities because they are considered resident foreign corporations “engaged in business in the Philippines,” and not non-resident foreign corporations.

The advisory notes:

“All Foreign-based and Philippine-based Operators, including those have already been issued an Offshore Gaming License by PAGCOR are required to register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue on or before payment of any tax due; or before or upon filing of any applicable tax return, statement or declaration as required by the Tax Code, as amended, whichever comes earlier.”

POGO operators already pay hefty fees to PAGCOR for licensing – up to $50,000 for online casino applications and $200,000 licensing.