PAGCOR Donates PHP50 Million to National Bureau of Investigation to Combat Illegal Gambling Operations
The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signed by PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco and NBI Director Jaime Santiago. The donation will be distributed in segments, with an initial tranche of PHP25 million ($430,000) provided during the signing ceremony.
“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,” Chairman Tengco stated during the announcement. “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 funding comes in response to the nationwide shutdown of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) implemented last year, which resulted in the detention of hundreds of individuals, many of whom require repatriation. The donation aims to address the financial burden placed on law enforcement agencies following the closure of these operations.
“Illegal gambling operators undermine our laws, exploit our people, and put our communities at risk,” Tengco emphasized. “By working hand in hand with the NBI, we are sending a strong message that we will not allow unlawful gaming practices to persist.”
While PAGCOR maintains licensing and regulatory authority over gaming operators in the Philippines, enforcement powers are distributed among various government departments. The regulatory body has consistently highlighted this distinction when addressing questions about sector-wide prohibitions.
Chairman Tengco has been vocal in advocating for increased regulatory oversight and the elimination of illegal operations, while also promoting the gaming sector’s contribution to national revenue. The partnership with NBI represents a concrete step toward addressing enforcement gaps and supporting the agencies responsible for on-the-ground action against illegal gambling.
The collaboration between PAGCOR and NBI is part of broader inter-agency efforts that include the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Immigration, and the Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime. These coordinated actions aim to strengthen intelligence gathering, investigation capabilities, and prosecution of individuals involved in unauthorized gaming operations.
About PAGCOR
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation is the government-owned corporation responsible for regulating and licensing all gaming operations in the Philippines. PAGCOR generates revenue for nation-building initiatives while promoting responsible gaming practices and maintaining industry integrity.
