PAGCOR Nullifies Over PHP 200 Million in Casino Winnings Claimed by Government Employees
PAGCOR Cancels Casino Earnings Claimed by Public Officials
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has declared invalid more than PHP 200 million (around $3.52 million) in casino winnings that were claimed by government officers and employees from January to July this year. This move is part of PAGCOR’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on unlawful gambling activities.
Verification Process Leads to Voided Winnings
Alejandro Tengco, the chairman and CEO of PAGCOR, explained that these winnings were confiscated after a thorough secondary review showed that the winners were not allowed to enter casinos. This ban applies to all government workers, including elected officials and civil servants, barring them from gambling inside casino premises.
Controversy Involving DPWH Employees Gambling Illegally
The enforcement action follows public outcry after news broke regarding suspended engineer Henry Alcantara from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) who was reportedly frequenting casinos. Alcantara admitted that he and other DPWH Bulacan staff used fake identities and may have even gained VIP privileges. PAGCOR has since initiated a formal investigation into these allegations.
Civil Service Commission Warns Against Gambling During Work Hours
The Civil Service Commission has cautioned government workers that participating in gambling activities during office hours, whether physically at casinos or online, can be considered conduct detrimental to public service. Such behavior may result in disciplinary action according to civil service laws.
PAGCOR Advocates for Stronger Controls Rather Than a Complete Ban
These recent measures align with PAGCOR’s broader commitment to eliminating illegal gambling, a stance reaffirmed by Tengco in recent public speeches including at the Light & Wonder Symposium held at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City. While advocating for more rigorous regulations in the online gambling sector, Tengco opposed an outright prohibition of iGaming in the Philippines.
Challenges Facing the Philippine iGaming Industry
The Philippine gaming market is still experiencing the repercussions of the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Many financial institutions are reducing their support for online gambling, and the Senate, led by committee chair Senator Erwin Tulfo, plans to investigate the industry. Reports from late August indicate that online gaming activities may have decreased by up to 50%, partly due to several e-wallet services withdrawing from the market.
Future Prospects for a Safer and More Transparent iGaming Sector
Tengco highlighted that by embracing responsible growth, ensuring strict adherence to regulations, and promoting transparency, the Philippines can cultivate a safer, more competitive global iGaming environment. PAGCOR continues to improve industry standards, including the enforcement of tougher advertising rules and other safeguards to protect players and the integrity of gaming operations.
