Manila, Philippines, June 8th, 2026, PlayNewswire
Despite intermittent rain showers, SiGMA Asia 2026 delivered another successful edition in Manila, marking the event’s fourth year and reinforcing the Philippines’ position as one of Asia’s leading regulated gaming jurisdictions.
The summit’s journey has been one of resilience. Originally scheduled as SiGMA’s first event outside Malta in 2020, the launch was postponed when the global pandemic brought the events industry to a standstill. The event finally debuted in Asia in 2023, serving as a bridge between Eastern and Western gaming markets at a time when the industry was eager to reconnect.
Today, the Philippines continues to stand out for its strong industry engagement, revenue potential, and established regulatory framework. SiGMA Asia 2026 is estimated to have welcomed approximately 7,800 international delegates, with attendance projected to reach 12,000 in 2027.
Networking and Industry Engagement
The week began with a series of networking opportunities designed to bring together key stakeholders from across the gaming ecosystem. Following an opening party on 31 May, delegates arrived at the Conrad Manila to collect conference credentials, while exhibitors prepared their stands at the SMX Convention Centre.
Premium ticket holders participated in the SiGMA Nexus Elite Golf Tour at Club Intramuros, where industry executives combined networking with sport on one of Manila’s most scenic golf courses. Other attendees enjoyed a two-hour cruise along Manila Bay, offering a more relaxed setting for business discussions.
The first day concluded with the SiGMA Asia Awards ceremony at Conrad Manila. Alongside industry recognition, the evening highlighted the work of the SiGMA Foundation through a charitable art auction that raised €17,000. Companies including OneHazel, Finera, Malta Media, and Z-Gaming supported the initiative, while the National Lottery of Liberia successfully bid on two featured artworks.
One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of a special award to PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco in recognition of his contribution to the gaming industry. The programme also featured a charity raffle, a quiz competition, and honorary Hall of Game awards.
SiGMA Poker Tour Returns to Asia
Running alongside the summit, the SiGMA Poker Tour (SPT) hosted its second Asian edition at City of Dreams Manila from 30 May to 4 June. Billed as the tour’s most ambitious stop to date, the event featured a guaranteed prize pool of PHP 20 million, the largest in the tour’s history.
Following its Manila success, the SPT is scheduled to continue in September with its debut event in Mexico.
Industry Leaders Take the Stage
The conference officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and keynote addresses from leading public and private sector figures, including PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco and Deputy Speaker Hon. Maria Rachel Arenas.
Addressing attendees, Tengco emphasised the importance of responsible growth within the gaming industry:
“The true measure of this industry is not simply its size or rate of expansion, but our ability to ensure that gaming remains properly regulated, socially responsible, and more importantly, genuinely beneficial to the communities we all serve.”
Deputy Speaker Arenas focused on the transformative role of artificial intelligence, noting its growing influence across industries and society:
“It is redefining how we work, learn, create, and make decisions.”
Malta Day and Global Gaming Awards
The summit also hosted a Malta Day celebration organised by the Maltese Embassy to the Philippines in commemoration of Sette Giugno. More than 40 ambassadors and consuls attended the event, which featured traditional Maltese cuisine and performances by a youth orchestra.
Another key event on the agenda was the Global Gaming Awards Asia-Pacific 2026, where winners were recognised across ten categories. During the ceremony, SiGMA Group Founder Eman Pulis highlighted the organisation’s global reach and commitment to promoting regulated gaming markets:
“We’re back, stronger, and leading the pack in bringing the community to Asia.”
Closing Celebrations and Looking Ahead
The summit concluded with its official closing party at BSK Manila, presented by 747.live. Inspired by Manila’s vibrant nightlife and urban culture, the event featured performances by DJs John Odin and SEHEN and provided attendees with a final opportunity to connect before departing.
Following record participation and strong industry engagement, SiGMA Asia is set to return to Manila in June 2027. Organisers expect attendance to reach 12,000 delegates, reflecting the continued growth of both the summit and the broader Asian gaming market.
Abount Sigma
Founded in 2014 by Eman Pulis, SiGMA Group is a global events and media company connecting the iGaming, technology, affiliate marketing, and emerging tech industries. Through international summits, media platforms, venture capital initiatives, and philanthropic projects, SiGMA fosters innovation, networking, and sustainable growth worldwide.
Contact
Alisson Gustavoalisson.gs@sigma.world
