Understanding PAGCOR’s Role in Regulating Gambling Activities
Attorney Nicole Rose Margaret Jamilla has made statements blaming PAGCOR for the criminal cases filed against Mayor Alice Guo of Bamban, Tarlac. However, it is critical to understand PAGCOR’s role in regulating gaming activity.
It is critical to recognize that PAGCOR’s laws are strict and explicitly identify the repercussions of license infractions. Licensees who violate the provisions of their licenses incur serious penalties, including fines and revocation.
The specifics of PAGCOR’s responsibilities
PAGCOR’s function is confined to issuing and controlling licenses in accordance with specified criteria and papers presented by applicants. The organization does not handle local business permits or building inspections that fall outside of its jurisdiction.
Zun Yuan Technologies, Inc., a PAGCOR licensee, was discovered to be operating unlawfully at a Bamban complex recently. Despite having a provisional license from PAGCOR, the company engaged in illegal activities, resulting in instant license revocation post-raid.
Challenges in Monitoring and Enforcement
PAGCOR’s monitoring and enforcement capabilities are limited to licensed premises. In the instance of the Bamban property, PAGCOR’s control was restricted to select locations, making it difficult to monitor illicit operations in inaccessible buildings.
While PAGCOR is critical in regulating gaming operations, the organization’s focus has switched under the present government to identifying irregularities in the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) sector.
Exposing Criminal Activities in the POGO Sector
Under the current leadership, PAGCOR has launched numerous successful raids on POGO businesses, uncovering criminal acts by select licensees. These initiatives resulted in the uncovering and removal of illicit behaviors in the industry.
Recognizing PAGCOR’s expanding role in protecting the integrity of the gaming industry and maintaining strong regulatory monitoring is critical for effectively combating illicit activity.