Pasay city: The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has announced its decision to allocate PHP50 million to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to enhance efforts against illegal gaming activities, including the banned Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
According to Philippines News Agency, this financial support was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed at the PAGCOR Corporate Office in Pasay City. The agreement was signed by PAGCOR chairperson and chief executive officer Alejandro Tengco and NBI Director Jaime Santiago. During the signing, an initial PHP25 million was handed over to the NBI, marking the first installment of the total assistance.
Tengco stated, “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.” He emphasized that this assistance would cover costs related to the detainment of POGO-related individuals and support the NBI’s legitimate operations against illegal gaming.
He further highlighted PAGCOR’s commitment to safeguarding the gaming industry and ensuring that revenues from legal gaming benefit the Filipino population. He stressed the detrimental impact of illegal gambling operators on the law and community safety, reinforcing the partnership with the NBI as a strong stance against unlawful gaming practices.
NBI Director Santiago expressed appreciation for PAGCOR’s support, noting that it would enhance the bureau’s capabilities to fulfill its mandate. “The NBI welcomes PAGCOR’s assistance as it will enable us to step up our operations against illegal POGOs and other unlawful gaming activities. This partnership affirms our shared duty to uphold the law and protect the Filipino people,” Santiago remarked.