Crypto in the Philippines: Real Use Cases in 2025

Crypto adoption in the Philippines isn’t a theory. It’s already part of daily transactions. Overseas remittances are shifting to stablecoins like USDT and USDC, cutting transfer times from days to minutes. Freelancers are bypassing traditional bank delays, getting paid instantly through blockchain rails.

In iGaming, Filipino players are using licensed platforms to deposit and withdraw in crypto. This avoids tedious currency conversion fees, even unlocking faster payouts. On the ground, local e-wallets such as GCash and Coins.ph make cashing out as simple as scanning a QR code.

This blog breaks down exactly where and how Filipinos are using crypto in 2025. We backed it by numbers, specific examples, and practical context. 

Gaming & Gambling

From barangay bingo nights to basketball betting, gaming has always been part of Filipino leisure. In 2025, crypto removed much of the friction. No more bank delays or long payout queues. Licensed blockchain casinos and sportsbooks can process deposits and withdrawals in minutes.

It’s not only overseas operators tapping into this trend. Several regional platforms are now accepting Filipino players. These sites support Bitcoin, Ethereum, and major stablecoins for funding accounts, with winnings cashable to PHP through BSP-registered exchanges. Once converted, players can instantly spend via GCash or Maya.

Crypto is also driving growth in play-to-earn ecosystems. In-game tokens and assets can now be traded for real value. While the Axie Infinity boom of 2021 has faded, newer P2E titles have built more stable economies to keep players engaged.

The BSP hasn’t banned crypto use in gambling but continues to caution against unregulated operators. Despite the warnings, adoption is accelerating, especially since transaction speed, fees, and accessibility outperform traditional betting channels.

Remittances & OFW Cash Flows

In 2025, overseas Filipinos are sending an estimated $2.97 billion back home through crypto channels. This is a sharp climb from $1.8 billion in 2024. The bulk of these transfers move in stablecoins like USDT and USDC. Why the surge?

• Speed: Cash-outs can land in local e-wallets like GCash and Coins.ph within minutes.
• Lower fees: Traditional remittance options like Western Union or money transfer counters charge 6–8%; crypto transfers average under 2%.
• Accessibility: No bank account needed — just a wallet app and someone on the receiving end ready to hit “withdraw.”

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) continues to urge the use of licensed VASPs (Virtual Asset Service Providers) for security and compliance. But despite these cautions, thousands of OFWs are choosing crypto rails over standing in long queues at remittance counters. Speed, cost savings, and ease of access are valued above all.

Trading & Investing

In the Philippines, crypto trading isn’t just for tech pros in Makati’s co-working hubs. It’s gone mainstream. By early 2025, licensed Philippine exchanges like Coins.ph have surpassed 12 million registered wallets, while PDAX posted a ₱150 billion PHP trading volume in the past 12 months.

Getting started takes almost nothing. Most platforms let you trade with as little as ₱100, and the process is fully integrated with everyday payment tools like GCash and Maya. For many, buying Bitcoin or swapping stablecoins is as quick as ordering Jollibee. It’s become so common that even tricycle drivers swap “HODL” strategies between rides.

Payments & Everyday Spending

GCash now serves 94 million active users nationwide. The flow is simple. Users convert USDT or USDC through a BSP-licensed on/off-ramp like Coins.ph and switch it into pesos. This isn’t some under-the-table workaround. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has laid out the rules.

Under BSP Circular No. 1108 (2021), Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) must meet strict compliance standards for crypto-to-cash conversions. That means you’re not just moving money instantly. You’re doing it through fully regulated rails.