PAGCOR clears 3 operators to take online bets

Integrated resorts had asked to be able to take online wagers from known customers in a bid to aid recovery from the impact of the pandemic.

The Philippines.- The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) has given three of the largest land-based casino operators in Manila the green light to take online bets from known customers.  

It was first reported last month that PAGOR might allow online bets to compensate for some of the losses businesses suffered due to the pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions.

Now Alfredo Lim, PAGCOR president and COO, has confirmed to Bloomberg via text message that the regulator has approved requests to accept online bets from Bloomberry Resorts’ Solaire Resort and Casino, City of Dreams Manila, and Okada Manila. 

Richard Laneda, an analyst at COL Financial Group, told the news agency the move will help Manila’s integrated casino resorts “survive and get through the pandemic until they are allowed by government to fully operate.” 

Share prices for Bloomberry and Premium Leisure Corp., which has inerest in City of Dreams Manila, jumped on the news.