PAGCOR Increases Funding to Combat Illegal Gambling in the Philippines

PAGCOR’s Initiative to Combat Illegal Gambling

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has committed to intensifying its efforts against illegal gambling activities in the country. To support this mission, PAGCOR has allocated a total of 50 million Philippine pesos to assist the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), which is actively working alongside the agency to target unlawful gambling operations.

Collaborative Efforts Strengthened Through Funding

Half of this funding, amounting to 25 million pesos, has already been transferred to the NBI as part of a formal agreement. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by PAGCOR’s CEO Alejandro H. Tengco and NBI Director Jaime Santiago, setting the framework for enhanced cooperation between the two organizations.

Tengco emphasized that this partnership symbolizes a firm stance against illegal gambling and facilitates stronger regulatory actions. The agreement also reflects ongoing discussions regarding the regulation and legality of online gambling within the Philippines.

President Bongbong Marcos has shown a preference to keep the industry operational due to its significant contributions to government revenue, despite facing opposition from certain political and religious groups.

Public Opinion and Regulatory Outlook

Meanwhile, the majority of Filipino citizens support a regulated and licensed online gambling industry, viewing it as a safer and more transparent alternative compared to offshore gambling platforms.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago highlighted the benefits of the renewed partnership, stating that PAGCOR’s support empowers the bureau to enhance its crackdown on illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and other illicit gaming ventures.

“This collaboration reinforces our joint responsibility to enforce the law and safeguard the welfare of the Filipino people,” Santiago remarked.