Casino Gaming News Philippines

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 15) — The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) on Sunday ordered the suspension of all casino and other gaming operations in Metro Manila amid the increasing threat of coronavirus disease or COVID-19 in the country.

Philippines Gambling News The Philippines Islands are quickly recognizing the value that legal gambling has brought to the region. With the benefits of an economic boost and increased tourism, the online and offline gambling industry is constantly expanding and evolving in the region. The PAGCOR-licensed privately-run casinos in Manila’s Entertainment City gaming zone reported revenue of nearly P33.5b in Q1 2020, down from P39.8b last year, reflecting the mid-March closure of.

Land-based casinos, electronic games, bingo, sports betting, poker, and slot machine clubs operations will be suspended immediately. PAGCOR said the order will remain until the duration of the community quarantine imposed on Metro Manila.

PAGCOR said Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) will remain, but with limitations. The state-run agency said only a minimum number of workers will be allowed in their workplaces. Latest available government data show that POGO service providers have about 108,914 employees.

Casino Gaming News Philippines 2020

The rest of POGO workers will be restricted to their living quarters where they will observe social distancing and quarantine protocols, PAGCOR said.

'PAGCOR believes in the seriousness of the COVID-19 situation. Hence, it supports the government’s extreme effort in containing the virus. For its part, the state-run gaming agency has decided to prohibit public gatherings in its gaming venues and in the licensed gaming properties that it regulates,' it announced on its Facebook page.

Casino Gaming News Philippines 2019

It added that operations of PAGCOR properties will likewise be suspended in areas outside Metro Manila if the local government declares a community quarantine.