GGPoker.ph has donated PHP1m ($17,775) to Feeding Metro Manila, a charity in the Philippines providing food and aid to those affected in the aftermath of Typhoon Carina. The disaster took place in July, causing damage and flooding to the area.
The funds were raised via GGPoker.ph’s Charity Freeroll Series of online poker tournaments, which took place in mid-August. A check for PHP1m was handed to the charity by GGPoker Philippines President Ron Dale Gascon.
Said Gascon: "All of us need help at one time or another, and the great Philippine poker community is always ready and willing to support their fellow countrymen and women. GGPoker is proud to be in a position to help and to acknowledge that there are some things more important in life than playing our favourite card game; we are delighted to support Feeding Metro Manila and see the city’s most needy children receive relief in the aftermath of this terrible disaster."
GGPoker Philippines President Ron Dale Gascon handing the check to Feeding Metro Manila
Businesses across the industry are frequently seen providing charitable aid and funding in areas connected to their players and staff. Last month, Softswiss announced its continued efforts to aid in flood relief in Brazil following a flood in May, with the provider bringing clean water to schools near Porto Alegre.
Meanwhile, the Philippine gaming market has been experiencing some turbulence as of late, following the ban of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In July. The decision to ban POGOs came following continued stories of the operators’ ties to crimes including money laundering and trafficking, with developing stories including the deportation of foreign POGO workers and the alleged discovery of a mass grave in Porac, Pampanga.
All POGO’s must cease operation by the end of the year, with POGO worker permits being valid until 31 December 2024.
