The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has taken decisive legal action against 33 offshore gambling license holders for non-payment of P2.02 billion (SGD48.8 million) in licensing fees.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has taken decisive legal action against 33 offshore gambling license holders for non-payment of P2.02 billion (SGD48.8 million) in licensing fees.
PAGCOR’s Offshore Legal Pursuit
The regulatory body alleges that these operators, granted licenses during the previous administration, have failed to fulfill their licensing fee obligations for over a year, thereby violating Section 4.C of the Offshore Gaming Regulatory Manual.
Despite PAGCOR‘s attempts to communicate with these operators and request the required regulatory fees, no response has been received. Notably, five of the licensees have ceased operations.
Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR’s chairman and CEO, stated that the refusal to comply with Philippine laws and discharge the requisite fees has left the regulator with no alternative but to pursue legal remedies.
Tengco explained, “Given this predicament, it is our duty to pursue a legal course of action. We are currently in the process of collating relevant information to initiate appropriate legal proceedings.”
He emphasized, “PAGCOR will persist in ensuring that all our regulated gaming entities, including offshore gaming operators and service providers, adhere to our regulatory protocols, which encompass accurate fee and tax payments.”
PAGCOR’s Novel Regulatory Framework
This development comes on the heels of PAGCOR’s recent introduction of a novel regulatory framework for offshore gaming licensees. Rolled out in July, this framework is part of collaborative endeavors across various agencies to combat illegal offshore activities within the country.
A significant facet of this framework is that all licensees and service providers are placed on probation. They must reapply for PAGCOR’s approval before the cut-off date of September 17 to continue operating within the country. Any operators or providers found to have operated illegally will be ineligible for new licensing.
PAGCOR’s Commitment to Curbing Illegal Gambling
In its ongoing efforts to curb illegal offshore gambling, PAGCOR has embarked on a series of initiatives over the past months.
The regulatory body has worked closely with other governmental and law enforcement bodies to establish accredited hub offices. It has also introduced reforms to impose stricter penalties on licensees that violate regulations.
Furthermore, operators are now subject to heightened compliance inspections and are required to submit reports to enforcement agencies for further investigation. PAGCOR has underscored its intent to levy substantial fines on operators found non-compliant with regulations.
PAGCOR’s Key Role in Asia Pacific Casino Licensing
PAGCOR has long held a significant role in shaping the regulatory landscape of the Asia Pacific casino industry. Serving as both a regulatory body and operator, PAGCOR plays a pivotal role in overseeing and facilitating the casino and gambling sector within the Philippines and beyond.
Beyond its domestic endeavors, PAGCOR also serves as a crucial player in the Asia Pacific online casino landscape. The organization’s regulatory framework and licensing protocols influence the perceptions of the region’s casino industry on a broader scale. With the Philippines emerging as a hub for integrated casino resorts, PAGCOR’s oversight shapes the standards and expectations for casinos operating within the region.
PAGCOR’s approach to licensing and regulation is designed to ensure transparency, integrity, and responsible gaming practices within the industry. By setting high standards for licensing approval, operational conduct, and player protection, PAGCOR aims to create an environment where both operators and players can engage with confidence.
PAGCOR’s Domestic Online Venture
Amid these measures, PAGCOR recently unveiled plans to launch its own online casino, CasinoFilipino.com, projected to debut in Q1 2024. The platform will legally enable users to engage in online gambling under PAGCOR’s auspices.
This online casino launch is aligned with PAGCOR’s broader modernization agenda, encompassing both its established land-based activities throughout the Philippines and its evolving online endeavors.
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Born and raised in Singapore, Jeanette developed a passion for gambling at an early age. Intrigued by the dynamics of casinos and the allure of games, she immersed herself in studying various gambling strategies and techniques. Her dedication and commitment to understanding the intricacies of online casinos led her to become a prominent figure in the industry.
