PAGCOR CEO stresses importance of collaboration to tackle gambling harm
Alejandro Tengco has emphasised the need for “a whole-of-society approach”.
The Philippines.- Alejandro H. Tengco, chairman and chief executive officer of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has called for stronger collaboration in the gaming industry to reduce gambling harm. Speaking at the 2nd International Conference on Responsible Gambling and Addiction in Quezon City, he highlighted the importance of a community approach.
He said: “As regulators, policymakers, industry operators, healthcare professionals, and academicians, we must not only share knowledge but also act as partners in understanding, preventing, and reducing the threats posed by problem gambling.”
Tengco said the theme of the event, “Empowering Pathways: Problem Gambling and Gaming Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery,” matches PAGCOR’s efforts to encourage responsible gaming, noting policies, such as banning minors and government employees at gaming venues and PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Program, including exclusion, the regulation of gaming ads, and rehab centres.
He said: “Gaming has inherent social risks, but with the right safeguards and collaboration among all sectors, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our players.”
PAGCOR warns against fake gaming certification
PAGCOR has issued a warning to the public regarding fake gaming certifications allegedly linked to Lucky 7 Bingo Corporation, a company that holds a licence to operate an e-games venue.
The regulator claims the company has been engaging in contract agreements that require bettors to make an upfront initial cash deposit of PHP3,000 (US$54). PAGCOR said the agreements reference is a fake offshore gaming licence, noting that offshore gaming operations have been banned in the Philippines since December 31, 2024.
Atty. Jessa Fernandez, head of PAGCOR’s Offshore Gaming and Licensing Department, said: “While Lucky 7 Bingo Corporation is a legitimate licensee for e-games venue operations as of April 30, 2025, it does not hold any valid offshore gaming license.
