PAGCOR could terminate a SunCity license

SunCity Group took over the casino at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza without PAGCOR’s permission and now could see its license terminated.

Philippines.- PAGCOR could be terminating a license for a casino operation at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza now run by junket operator SunCity Group after it took over the venue without the regulator’s permission. The license was originally issued to Success Vine Holdings and it couldn’t be transferred to another without the Philippine gaming regulator’s approval.

PAGCOR authorised Success Vine, run by president and chairman Lin Ruei Ji, to operate in a three year deal that would’ve ended this August, but termination could come first as SunCity took over. The Philippine regulator reportedly found out after a launch party where some lower-level officials were invited.

According to AGBrief, chairwoman Andrea Domingo sent a letter to Success Vine, remindind it that the license can’t be transferred to another company by sale without the regulator’s approval. In the “strongly worded” message, she pointed out that the take over by SunCity could result in a termination of the license.

“SunCity is not licensed by Pagcor to conduct junket operations at Sofitel Philippine Plaza. In view thereof, we demand a written explanation why Success Vine allowed Sun City to conduct blessing and soft opening ceremonies last week. Such act may be considered a ground for suspension or termination by Pagcor pursuant to the agreement,” Domingo said.

Despite the irregular deal and the opening party and ceremonies, the casino at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza shut down its operation just a few days after the inauguration.