The Philippines gaming regulator is upping the nation’s efforts to combat illegal gambling, with a new PHP50 million ($860K) donation to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The group announced that it had formalized a Memorandum of Agreement with the NBI, signed by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco and NBI Director Jaime Santiago.
The donation is divided in segments, with the first tranche of PHP25 million ($430K) donated during the MOA signing.
“This morning, we are signing a Memorandum of Agreement that underscores the shared responsibility of PAGCOR and the NBI in promoting lawful, fair, and responsible gaming in the Philippines,” noted the PAGCOR Chairman.
“This assistance will defray the cost of food and expenses for POGO detainees, as well as support the Bureau’s legitimate operations against illegal gaming activities.”
The shutdown of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) last year has led to the detention of hundreds of individuals, many of whom require repatriation. However, complications surrounding identities and other issues has led to a delay in some repatriations, with the relevant agencies needing to foot the bill.
Amongst the background of pushes to totally ban the online sector, PAGCOR has been firm in its support of legal, highly-regulated online gaming – for those which it has licensed, with Tengco reiterating the push to wipe out all forms of illegal gambling within the country.
“Illegal gambling operators undermine our laws, exploit our people, and put our communities at risk. By working hand in hand with the NBI, we are sending a strong message that we will not allow unlawful gaming practices to persist,” noted Tengco.
While PAGCOR licenses and oversees the operators, it does not have enforcement powers, which are distributed amongst other government departments – a fact it has highlighted when questioned on whether the online sector should be completely banned.
Tengco has pushed for increased regulatory oversight and the elimination of illegal operations, while promoting the sector’s contribution to nation building revenue.
