Travellers International Hotel Group, the owner and operator of Resorts World Manila, has announced the suspension of operations in all affected facilities and the postponement of its Annual Stockholders’ meeting following the tragic attack that took 37 lives last Friday.
In a Monday filing to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Travellers said it would shut down certain operations and delay financial discussions while investigations into the attack were ongoing.
“The Board of Directors of the Company deemed it prudent to postpone the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting originally scheduled on June 9, 2017 out of deference and sympathy to the families of the deceased and the injured from the tragic June 2 incident,” it said.
“The Board of Directors also deemed it insensitive to discuss financials and expansion plans as if it is business as usual.
“The Company’s position is that Resorts World Manila is voluntarily suspending its operations in affected facilities (especially the gaming areas) until all investigations are concluded by the PNP and BFP and safety is certified by appropriate authorities.”
Travellers’ stance comes as Philippine gaming regulator Pagcor revealed that the gunman, 42-year-old Jesse Carlos Javier, had been placed on a national exclusion register only two months earlier, banning him from all gaming establishments across the country.
In a statement on its website, Pagcor said Javier had been placed on the National Database of Restricted Persons on 27 March at the request of family members. It was also quick to distance itself from the tragedy, highlighting its recent efforts in combatting problem gambling nationwide.
“To heighten awareness on Responsible Gambling, Pagcor tapped the mainstream, internet and social media to reach its target public about the hazards of gambling addiction,” it said.
“It has also set a 24/7 hotline and partnered with Help Centers in the country to assist those who wish to be rehabilitated from their gambling problem.
“The name of Jessie Carlos was entered into the National Database of Restricted Persons (NDRP) last 27 March. The NDRP is the online system of excluded persons developed by Pagcor which is accessible to licensed casinos and major operators of electronic gaming.
“Aside from player exclusion, which happened to Jessie Carlos – who was banned in all gaming establishment – following his family’s request, Pagcor also enforces stricter regulations for its electronic game and eBingo sites.”
