Philippines to add entry fee in casinos

The Philippines press has revealed the government’s proposal for casino entry fees.

Philippines.- A new casino regulation has been introduced by Isabela 1st District Representative Rodolfo Albano III in order to charge an entry fee in gaming venues. The bill was presented after the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) ruled the suspension of Resorts World Manila (RWM) license due to the deadly attack that happened on June 2.

“The Resorts World casino tragedy…called attention to the sinister effects of gambling addiction especially among those who do not have or can ill afford the financial resources needed to engage in casino gambling,” published the Philippine lawmaker, as reported by rappler.com.

The legislative proposal would set an entry fee for local players in casinos countrywide. “It only seeks to address some poor people who have no more money and yet go inside and gamble all they have left for their families…. Deterrent also to poor addicts,” added Albano. According to the international press, the attack was held by a problem gambler who killed 37 people and then ended his life.

Meanwhile, Pagcor released a statement concerning the attack: “With the suspension, RWM must cease and desist all gaming operations while investigation on its liability regarding the June 2 incident is ongoing.” Authorities are also asking casino operators to submit documents on venues’ security systems in order to plan improvements in the area.