PAGCOR voids over PHP 200m in casino winnings claimed by government officials
Winnings denied as officials found breaching gambling ban.
Key points:
– Over PHP 200 million ($3.5m) in casino prizes denied to government officials
– PAGCOR enforces ban through ID and CCTV-based screening
– Civil Service Commission warns of disciplinary action for gambling during office hours
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has voided more than PHP 200 million ($3.5m) in casino winnings claimed by government officials and employees from January to July this year, as reported by The Philippine Star.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco confirmed that the winnings were withheld after a secondary screening process revealed the claimants were barred from entering casinos due to their positions in public service. The ban applies to all government officials, including elected local government representatives and civil servants.
“Even if they make an appeal, we will never give them their winnings,” said Tengco during a radio interview. He emphasised that PAGCOR-operated and licensed casinos are required to conduct identity checks before releasing any prizes. CCTV footage and additional ID verification are used to identify restricted individuals.
Good to know: Government officials caught gambling during working hours may face administrative sanctions under Civil Service Commission rules
The enforcement comes amid criticism following revelations that suspended Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) engineer Henry Alcantara had regularly gambled in casinos. Alcantara claimed that he and colleagues from the DPWH Bulacan office used fake names and IDs, and may have even received VIP access.
PAGCOR is now investigating those allegations.
The Civil Service Commission reminded public servants that gambling during work hours, whether in person or online, could result in charges of conduct prejudicial to the interest of service. Disciplinary action may follow in line with existing civil service rules.
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