The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is a government-owned and controlled corporation that oversees the regulation and operation of all games of chance in the Philippines. Established in 1977 through Presidential Decree No. 1067-A, PAGCOR is responsible for licensing and regulating casinos, e-games, sports betting, bingo, and other forms of gaming activities in the country.
As a regulatory agency, PAGCOR’s main role is to ensure that all gaming activities in the Philippines are conducted in a fair and transparent manner. It sets standards and guidelines for gaming operators to follow, conducts inspections and audits of their operations, and issues sanctions for any violations of rules and regulations. PAGCOR also collects taxes and fees from gaming operators and players, which are used to fund various government programs and initiatives.
As a regulatory agency, PAGCOR’s main role is to ensure that all gaming activities in the Philippines are conducted in a fair and transparent manner. It sets standards and guidelines for gaming operators to follow, conducts inspections and audits of their operations, and issues sanctions for any violations of rules and regulations. PAGCOR also collects taxes and fees from gaming operators and players, which are used to fund various government programs and initiatives.
In addition to its regulatory functions, PAGCOR also operates several casinos and entertainment complexes throughout the Philippines. Its flagship casino is the Casino Filipino Manila Bay, which offers a wide range of table games, slot machines, and other gaming activities. PAGCOR’s other casino branches include Casino Filipino Angeles, Casino Filipino Cebu, Casino Filipino Davao, and Casino Filipino Bacolod, among others. These casinos provide not only entertainment but also employment opportunities and revenue for the local communities where they are located.
Moreover, PAGCOR also operates e-games cafes, which are gaming venues that offer electronic versions of popular casino games like slots, poker, and baccarat. These cafes are located in various cities and towns in the Philippines and cater primarily to the local market.
The revenue generated by PAGCOR is used to support various government programs and projects, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. In 2020, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, PAGCOR reported a total revenue of Php 18.5 billion, which was remitted to the national government as mandated by law.
Overall, PAGCOR plays a significant role in regulating and promoting responsible gaming in the Philippines, while also contributing to the country’s economic growth and development.
