A measure seeking to curb abusive ticket resale practices is being pushed in the Senate following reports of inflated prices for highly anticipated concert tickets, including those for the upcoming BTS world tour in the Philippines.
The proposed Senate Bill No. 1989 or the Anti-Ticket Scalping Act proposed by Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, aims to penalize individuals and groups engaged in reselling tickets beyond regulated prices, with escalating fines and possible imprisonment for repeat offenders. Initial penalties include fines of up to P100,000 or six months’ imprisonment, while third offenses may carry penalties of up to P500,000 or three years in jail.
Reports reaching lawmakers indicate that BTS concert tickets scheduled for March next year are being resold online at prices ranging from P30,000 to as high as ₱90,000, far above official rates. VIP Soundcheck tickets are reportedly priced at P25,000, while some bleacher seats are listed at P7,500.
The bill also seeks to strengthen oversight of ticketing platforms and event organizers to help prevent unauthorized resale and improve enforcement mechanisms.
The BTS concert is set for March 13 and 14 at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bulacan, with around 25,000 fans expected per show. It will mark the group’s return to the Philippines since their last performance in 2017, prompting strong demand among local fans.