In the Philippines, gambling plays a crucial role in its colorful history and development. Even before the arrival of colonizers, natives are into games and betting. And this passion for the games continued during the Spanish times, the American colonization, and until the modern ear. Today, gambling is still present but heavily regulated. As a matter of policy, gambling is not allowed unless it’s fully regulated by the government through its offices like the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

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The story of PAGCOR started after the declaration of martial law and it brought significant change to the industry. Its a 100% government-owned licensing and regulating body in the Philippines, to protect Filipino welfare and achieve the country’s revenue target. Also, the ultimate goal of PAGCOR is to eradicate the increasing number of illegal casinos operating across the nation. Some amendments followed, and all these were finally consolidated into a single statute in 1983.

The Creation of PAGCOR

The operation of PAGCOR is based on three important objectives. First, the office is tasked to regulate all types of gambling within the nation. All casinos should comply with the industry requirements before obtaining a license to operate. Online casinos planning to accept real money bets from Philippine players are required to fully understand the true pagcor meaning and their roles in regulating the industry. The second is to raise funds to aid social programs and other developmental projects. Third, is to help boost the tourism industry of the country. As more players join the pagcor-accredited casinos, these casinos generate more revenues and taxes for the government.

As the country’s primary agency in regulating the gambling industry, PAGCOR performs several roles. It monitors casinos in terms of practices, regulatory requirements, and other related activities. It also monitors licensed gaming websites aside from land-based casinos. Among the gaming sites monitored by this organization are those that offer electronic games, bingo games, and poker games.

In the performance of these objectives, PAGCOR covers all types of gambling locations. These include pagcor sports betting, pagcor online betting, and pagcor casino games. In monitoring these locations, the agency follows an established set of standards and regulations that suit the Philippine settings.

pagcor definition

Casinos Operated by PAGCOR

If you are looking for a trusted gaming destination, choose pagcor accredited online gaming casinos. Pagcor online gaming casinos comply with industry requirements and regulations. More than its licensing work, it also operates several gambling destinations. One of the biggest casinos operated by PAGCOR is Casino Filipino. It has an extensive operation in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This casino operates following the regulatory manual for its gambling operations. The casino does not only cover casino gaming but also sports betting. Just like established casinos, this PAGCOR-run casino offers slot machines and different types of table games from blackjack, baccarat, and poker.

PAGCOR also regulates casinos that aspire to provide gaming services online. With its pagcor offshore gaming operations, the office regularly updates its policies to reflect the demands of the market. It’s also the agency that lists and regulates the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). Among the companies officially listed are Blessed Dragon Limited, Oriental Game Limited, Philippine Cockfighting International Inc, and Inner Strong Limited.  Although the agency generates revenues through taxes, it still ensures integrity in the delivery of gaming. Besides the revenue creation, it seeks to provide and fund projects for social amelioration.

pagcor licensing

The Role of PAGCOR in Licensing and Regulating casinos

PAGCOR plays a vital role in licensing and regulating casinos. It issues licenses to physical casinos in the Philippines. As a reputable regulating body, its main goal is to ensure that the country’s vision when it comes to responsible gambling is achieved. To deliver on this promise, the agency performs specific objectives. Here are some of the policy objectives that are followed by PAGCOR when licensing and regulation offshore casinos and physical gambling facilities.

  • As a government agency, it’s tasked to promote responsible gaming and revenue creation at the same time. It has the authority to grant an operating license to casinos and collects fees and taxes from licensed operators.
  • PAGCOR promotes the delivery of casino gaming services professionally and responsibly. It maintains predictability and orderliness within the regulatory environment. This agency is guided by responsible and safe gambling principles. And these principles are geared toward achieving the highest level of integrity and fairness.
  • It also monitors if licensed casinos enforce terms and conditions in compliance with standards. The team regularly inspects and assesses the conduct of games to ensure the transparency and fairness of all gaming outcomes.
  • PAGCOR is committed to the promotion of responsible gaming at all times. It discourages minors from gaining access to gaming venues. The agency understands the potential harm of addictive gambling to casino players, thus it exercises its powers to prevent underage gambling and protect the most vulnerable.
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These are the primary policies implemented by PAGCOR in the performance of its mandate. It’s the partner of the national government not just in generating revenues from gambling but also in promoting a safe and fair gaming. So, online casinos planning to accept real money bets from Philippine players are required to fully understand the true PAGCOR meaning and their roles in regulating the industry.

FAQ

?? What is PAGCOR and how does it fit into the regulated gambling industry in the Philippines?

Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation is the primary government agency that’s tasked to regulate and provide licenses to casinos that plan to operate in the Philippines. It also operates Casino Filipino.

?? What types of games can be played with PAGCOR licensed casinos?

You can play traditional and specialty games at casinos licensed by this agency.  Some of the games you can play are table games, lottery, and live casinos.

? I want to learn more about PAGCOR. Where can I get more information about its services?

For queries and concerns, you can visit its official website. You can check out the resources and issuances on the site or send them an email.