Philippine gaming regulator Pagcor has promised to actively enforce a provision in its Responsible Gaming Code of Practice that stipulates a Php100,000 (US$1,967) fine for any government official or employee found to have played in one of the country’s casinos.
The warning followed a special event hosted by Pagcor and the Philippine National Police (PNP) at Solaire Resort & Casino this week at which new signage was unveiled warning government employees to abide by the law and avoid entering, staying or playing in casinos.
“We need to keep a close watch on all casino areas nationwide,” said Pagcor Chairman and CEO Andrea Domingo, adding that she was hopeful the partnership with PNP would lead to a better implementation of the RG Code of Practice in the future.
The provisions relate to Presidential Decree No 1869, otherwise known as the Pagcor Charter, and Memorandum Circular No 8 s. 2001 which list persons not allowed to play in gaming establishments around the country.
Pagcor issued a reiteration of the provisions in December, pointing to the prohibition of loan sharks and financiers in all gaming establishments and the penalty of Php100,000 per entry, per person for all government officials connected directly to the operation of the government or any of its agencies and their immediate relatives. It also applies to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines including the Army, Navy Air Force and the Philippine National Police; Gaming Employment License holders directly or indirectly involved in gaming operations; and persons included in the National Database of Restricted Persons (NDRP).
Those found breaking the law had previously been escorted off premises but Domingo said that in future, government employees who don’t abide will be “dealt with accordingly.”
She added that Pagcor has already established its compliance and monitoring systems in all licensed gaming venues and has implemented serious sanctions to licensees that did not adhere to set rules and guidelines.
PNP Chief Ronald Dela Rosa stated at the Solaire unveiling that the stricter measures against government workers who engage in gambling is in response to President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to promote a country free from corruption. He added that the new signage will serve as a stern warning to government employees to abide by the law.
RelatedPosts
