The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has recently committed Php50m in financial assistance to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). This is to support enforcement actions against illegal gambling, including banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). This initiative is part of broader efforts by regulators to tighten oversight across the Philippine gambling sector.
Funding Agreement Formalised in Pasay City
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has officially confirmed a Php50m ($880,000) funding commitment to the National Bureau of Investigation. The aim is to bolster operations targeting illegal gaming activities.
Specifically, the financial assistance was formalised through a Memorandum of Agreement signed at PAGCOR’s corporate office in Pasay City. It was signed by PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco and NBI director Jaime Santiago.
Moreover, an initial tranche of Php25m was released immediately following the signing, representing half of the total assistance pledged.
Support for Enforcement and Investigative Operations
According to PAGCOR, the funding will be used to support NBI operations related to illegal gambling enforcement. In particular, this includes logistical and operational costs connected to detained POGO personnel. Additionally, it covers other lawful investigative activities linked to unlicensed gaming. Alejandro Tengco said:
“This assistance will defray the cost of food and expenses for POGO detainees, and will also support the Bureau’s legitimate operations against illegal gaming activities.”
He further added that illegal gambling operators undermine regulatory safeguards and pose risks to local communities. Therefore, close cooperation with law enforcement agencies is central to PAGCOR’s regulatory responsibilities.
NBI Welcomes Additional Resources
Jaime Santiago said the additional funding would enhance the NBI’s operational capacity especially as enforcement efforts intensify.
“The NBI welcomes PAGCOR’s assistance because it will enable us to step up our operations against illegal POGOs and other unlawful gaming activities.”
This agreement comes at a time when Philippine authorities continue their actions following the government’s ban on POGOs. It highlights the need for coordinated efforts between licensing bodies and law enforcement agencies to address both onshore and offshore illegal gambling.
Broader Regulatory and Compliance Focus
PAGCOR has reiterated that its mandate extends beyond revenue generation to include regulatory enforcement. It also involves licensing oversight and inter-agency cooperation to ensure compliance with gambling laws. Consequently, the partnership with the NBI forms part of a wider strategy to protect lawful gaming operations. It addresses criminal activity associated with unlicensed operators.
For instance, earlier this month, PAGCOR revoked the provisional licence for PH Resorts’ planned Mactan integrated resort. This action formally ended the project’s licensed status after it failed to commence operations. This decision further underlines the regulator’s continued focus on compliance and enforcement across the Philippine gambling sector.
