When we talk about horse racing, what’s the first country that comes to mind? Probably the United Kingdom or the United States, right? But what about the Philippines?
Well, if you’ve been to a Filipino household during a big race, you’ll know exactly how big of a deal this sport is over there. One uncle pacing in front of the TV, someone yelling, “Numero tres, bilisan mo!” while holding a half-finished beer, and the whole room holding their breath like it’s the final round of a Manny Pacquiao fight.
So, yes, horse racing is available and quite popular in the Philippines. In fact, this is not just a sport over there, it is an entire culture, and for many, a lifestyle.
Let’s explore the history behind horse racing in the Philippines and find out how popular is horse racing nowadays.
A Legacy That Still Gallops
Not many people know that the Philippines has one of the oldest horse racing traditions in Asia. Yes, Hong Kong or Japan might be the center spots for high-end thoroughbred racing, but the Philippines is where it all started.
It all goes back to the Manila Jockey Club in the Philippines that dates back to 1867 – that’s older than most of your great-grandparents.
Back then, it was mostly Spanish elite, but over time, the locals accepted the sport and turned into something more democratic. Horse racing quickly became part of everyday Filipino entertainment, especially for bettors that are chasing that 40:1 longshot win.
What makes horse racing betting so popular? Well, it is all because of the unlimited winning potential, which according to TwinSpires is based on the odds when the pools close at post time.
But how about today? Is horse racing as popular? Well, it is not exactly a national pastime, since that spot is reserved for Basketball, but horse racing managed to stay surprisingly relevant.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s talk numbers just to understand how popular horse racing actually is. First we will take a look at horse production, which is the biggest indicator that the spot is still alive and thriving. According to Statista, the horse production grew in the last 5 years, and it amounted to approximately 247.51 thousand heads, which is an increase from previous years.
On top of that, we have sports betting, which is an industry that has been on a constant rise in the past couple of years, projected to reach $758.13 million in 2025.
In terms of betting, Filipinos mostly focus on basketball, boxing, and football, but horse racing is also quite popular.
Sure, like many traditional sports, horse racing took a gut punch during the pandemic. But since 2022, it’s been riding a strong comeback.
Why Is It Still Popular?
Glad you asked. Let’s break this down:
1. It’s Not Just About Horses—It’s About Hope
Horse racing offers a unique blend of sport, strategy, and luck. For many Filipinos, especially older generations, betting on races isn’t “just gambling”—it’s a mini escape, a thrill, and a chance to outsmart the odds.
2. It’s Surprisingly Accessible
You don’t need to buy front-row seats or book a VIP table to get into the action. Many Filipinos can follow races live via Facebook streams, bet using mobile wallets like GCash or PayMaya, or hang out at their local sari-sari store that doubles as a betting hub.
3. It’s a Social Sport
Unlike solo gambling or mobile games, horse racing is something people often do together. Watching races with friends, comparing picks, and collectively yelling at the screen builds a community vibe that’s hard to beat.
Who’s Running the Show?
These days, there are three main race clubs in the Philippines:
- Metro Manila Turf Club (Batangas)
- San Lazaro Leisure Park (Cavite)
- Santa Ana Park (also in Cavite)
But a fourth one is on the horizon. The Horsemen’s Track in Batangas, a spanking new venue, is set to debut in 2025, promising a modern experience that mixes old-school thrills with new-school tech.
More tracks mean more races, more jobs, and more reasons to keep betting. In fact, the industry supports over 12,000 jobs and contributes ₱1 billion+ annually in taxes. That’s not pocket change.
The Tax Problem Nobody Talks About
Alright, time for a little real talk. One of the biggest headaches in the local horse racing industry? Sky-high taxes.
At 29.5% turnover tax, the Philippines has one of the steepest racing tax rates in Asia. Compare that to Hong Kong’s 16.3% or Singapore’s 20%, and you start to understand why the industry sometimes feels like it’s racing with one leg tied.
Industry insiders have been calling for reform—arguing that lower taxes could boost betting volume, grow the industry, and actually increase overall government revenue. But for now, the high-tax hurdle remains.
So, Is It Still Popular?
Short answer: Yes, just in a different way.
Long answer: Horse racing in the Philippines may no longer be the default weekend activity it once was, but it has found a solid spot in modern Filipino life. The hardcore bettors never left. The casual fans are returning. And younger audiences are dipping their toes in thanks to mobile platforms and better digital experiences.
It’s not dying. It’s evolving.
