The Philippine gaming regulator is stepping up its campaign against illegal gambling with a new PHP50 million (around $860,000) funding boost for the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Under a recently signed Memorandum of Agreement between the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the NBI, the first PHP25 million tranche of the donation has already been released. This funding will help cover costs related to ongoing investigations, support operations against unlawful gaming, and provide basic needs such as food for individuals detained during anti-illegal gambling raids.
The crackdown follows the closure of offshore gaming operators last year, which resulted in the detention of hundreds of foreign nationals. Many of these individuals are awaiting repatriation, a process that has been delayed due to issues surrounding identification and documentation.
PAGCOR emphasized that while it regulates and licenses legitimate gaming operators, enforcement duties fall under the jurisdiction of other agencies such as the NBI. The regulator reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating illegal gambling activities while continuing to support a legal, tightly regulated online gaming industry that contributes significantly to government revenue.
“Illegal operators exploit people, violate our laws, and endanger communities,” PAGCOR leadership stressed. “By working closely with the NBI, we’re making it clear that unlawful gaming will not be tolerated.”
