Sports Betting in the Philippines: A Guide for 2025

Sports betting has become a thrilling pastime in the Philippines, fueled by a passion for sports like basketball, boxing, and football, and the convenience of mobile apps like 7XM, YE7, and PS88. With PAGCOR-regulated platforms ensuring safety and local payment options like GCash and PayMaya, Filipinos can easily bet on local and international events.

This guide explores the essentials of sports betting in 2025, including popular sports, top apps, and tips for safe and responsible wagering for beginners and seasoned bettors alike.

What is Sports Betting?

Sports betting involves placing wagers on the outcome of sporting events, such as who will win a PBA basketball game, the total points scored, or specific player performances. Unlike casino games, sports betting combines skill, knowledge, and luck, making it exciting for fans who follow their favorite teams or athletes. Bets are placed through online platforms, accessible via smartphones or computers, offering real-time odds and live betting options.

Key Features:

• Variety of Markets: Bet on match winners, point spreads, over/under totals, and more.
• Live Betting: Wager during a game as odds shift in real-time.
• Accessibility: Apps like BK8 and 1xBet make betting easy with mobile-friendly interfaces.

👉 New to betting? Check our Betting Basics Guide for a beginner-friendly introduction.

Why Sports Betting is Popular in the Philippines

• Cultural Love for Sports: Filipinos are passionate about basketball (PBA, NBA), boxing (Manny Pacquiao), and emerging sports like esports and volleyball.
• Convenience: Bet anytime, anywhere, using apps like YE7 or PS88 with GCash deposits.
• Exciting Markets: From local PBA games to international football leagues, there’s something for every fan.
• Bonuses: Welcome offers, free bets, and cashback on apps like 7XM enhance the experience.
• Live Streaming: Many platforms offer live game streams, making in-play betting immersive.

Popular Sports for Betting in the Philippines

Here are the top sports Filipinos bet on in 2025, available on PAGCOR-licensed or reputable apps:

1. Basketball
   • Why Bet on It: Basketball is a national obsession, with the PBA and NBA dominating betting markets. Available on 1xBet and PS88.
   • Popular Bets: Moneyline (e.g., Ginebra to win), point spread (e.g., TNT to win by 5+ points), over/under total points (e.g., 180.5).
   • Example: Bet ₱200 on San Miguel Beermen at 1.80 odds on YE7; win ₱360 if they win.
   • Why Choose It: High engagement due to local fanbase and frequent games.
2. Boxing
   • Why Bet on It: Inspired by icons like Manny Pacquiao, boxing is a staple for Filipino bettors. Offered on BK8 and Megapari.
   • Popular Bets: Fight winner, round betting (e.g., knockout in Round 3), method of victory (e.g., decision vs. KO).
   • Example: Bet ₱500 on a Filipino boxer at 2.00 odds on 7XM; win ₱1,000 if they win.
   • Why Choose It: High stakes and cultural resonance make boxing bets thrilling.
3. Football
   • Why Bet on It: The Philippines Football League (PFL) and global leagues like the Premier League attract growing interest. Available on BK8 and Bet365.
   • Popular Bets: Match winner, correct score, both teams to score, Asian handicap.
   • Example: Bet ₱100 on a draw at 3.00 odds on 22Bet; win ₱300 if the match ends tied.
   • Why Choose It: Diverse markets and live streaming enhance the experience.
4. Esports
   • Why Bet on It: Esports like Mobile Legends, Dota 2, and Valorant are booming among younger Filipinos. Offered on BC.GAME and YE7.
   • Popular Bets: Match winner, map winner, total kills, first blood.
   • Example: Bet ₱300 on a Mobile Legends team at 1.90 odds on PS88; win ₱570 if they win.
   • Why Choose It: Fast-paced and popular with tech-savvy players.
5. Volleyball
   • Why Bet on It: The Philippine Super Liga (PSL) and UAAP volleyball draw strong local support. Available on 1xBet and Megapari.
   • Popular Bets: Match winner, set betting, total points.
   • Example: Bet ₱200 on a UAAP team to win by 2 sets on Bet365; win based on odds if successful.
   • Why Choose It: Growing popularity and local relevance.

Top Sports Betting Apps in 2025

These PAGCOR-licensed or internationally regulated apps are ideal for sports betting in the Philippines:

• 7XM: Covers PBA, boxing, and esports with a ₱7,000 welcome bonus and GCash support.
• YE7: Mobile-optimized with live betting on basketball and esports, offering a ₱7,000 bonus.
• PS88: Filipino-focused with PBA and volleyball markets, plus a ₱5,000 welcome bonus.
• BK8: Best for football with live streaming and a 288% bonus up to ₱15,800.
• 1xBet: 6,000+ daily events, including PBA and boxing, with a ₱90,000 bonus.
• BC.GAME: Crypto-friendly with esports and basketball, offering a ₱28,932.59 bonus.
• 22Bet: Extensive esports markets and a 130% bonus up to ₱1,300.
• Megapari: Diverse sports markets with a ₱27,000 bonus.
• Bet365: Globally trusted with live streaming and a ₱10,000 bonus.
• Melbet: Frequent promotions and basketball betting with a ₱20,000 bonus.

👉 Pro Tip: Explore our Top Online Betting Apps in the Philippines 2025 for detailed app recommendations.

How to Start Sports Betting

1. Choose a Trusted App: Select a PAGCOR-licensed or internationally regulated platform like 7XM or YE7. Check licensing details on the app’s website.
2. Sign Up: Download the app from the official site or app store, register with your name, email, and ID, and verify your account.
3. Deposit Funds: Use GCash or PayMaya to add money (e.g., ₱100–₱500). Check minimum deposits and fees.
   • Tip: See our How to Deposit with GCash and PayMaya for step-by-step instructions.
4. Select a Sport and Market: Browse sports like PBA or esports, choose a market (e.g., moneyline), and check the odds.
5. Place Your Bet: Enter your stake (e.g., ₱100), confirm your bet, and track it in the app’s history.

Tips for Safe Sports Betting

1. Understand Odds: Learn how odds work to calculate potential payouts (e.g., ₱100 at 2.00 odds returns ₱200).
   • Tip: Read our Understanding Betting Odds in the Philippines for a detailed breakdown.
2. Research Your Bets: Study team form, player stats, or match conditions to make informed choices.
   • Example: Check PBA standings before betting on Ginebra vs. TNT.
3. Start Small: Place low-stake bets (e.g., ₱50) to learn without risking much.
4. Use Bonuses: Claim free bets or deposit bonuses (e.g., PS88’s ₱5,000 offer) but read wagering requirements.
5. Set a Budget: Decide your spending limit (e.g., ₱500/week) and use deposit limits on apps like YE7.
   • Tip: See our Safe Betting Tips for Beginners for budgeting strategies.
6. Avoid Chasing Losses: Don’t increase bets to recover losses; accept them as part of the game.
7. Play Responsibly: Take breaks and use tools like time reminders or self-exclusion on 1xBet.
   • Tip: Check our Responsible Gambling in the Philippines guide for support resources.

Responsible Gambling Resources

If sports betting feels overwhelming:

• PAGCOR Responsible Gaming Program: Offers counseling and resources (visit their website or hotline).
• Gamblers Anonymous Philippines: Support for gambling concerns (check their website for meetings).
• Mental Health Support: Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (+63 917-558-4673) for emotional distress.

Final Thoughts

Sports betting in the Philippines in 2025 is an exciting way to engage with beloved sports like basketball, boxing, and esports. With trusted apps like 7XM, YE7, and PS88 offering secure GCash payments, live betting, and generous bonuses, Filipinos can enjoy a thrilling experience. By choosing PAGCOR-regulated platforms, understanding odds, and betting responsibly, you can make sports betting a fun and safe pastime. Whether you’re wagering on a PBA game or a Mobile Legends match, start small and enjoy the action.

👉 Ready to bet? Explore our Top Online Betting Apps in the Philippines 2025, Understanding Betting Odds in the Philippines, and Best Casino Apps for Filipinos in 2025 to kickstart your sports betting journey.