Fate of Baguio e-games outlet rests on mayor

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – The clampdown on an electronic games (e-games) outlet along Marcos Highway here now rests in the hands of the mayor following an order from the city council last Monday.

Former police officer and now Councilor Roberto Ortega called on local legislators to close down the allegedly illegal operation of the e-games joint.

The city government said the e-games outlet in question, which was accredited by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor), is located well within the boundaries of Baguio City – contrary to claims that it is in the town of Tuba in Benguet.

Tuba Mayor Florencio Bentrez said the e-games joint is not a casino but a legal venture, as its operation was approved by the town officials.

Baguio City has a standing policy against casino operations, backed by church-led campaigns.

In June, the city council approved a resolution requesting Pagcor to cancel the license it issued to the said e-games outlet by virtue of a permit earlier issued by the municipal government of Tuba. 

Baguio officials claim that the e-games station falls within the “economic jurisdiction” of the city, based on the tax declaration of land and building owners Ricardo and Emilia Valerio.

The city council cited the complaint of the barangay council of Santo Tomas Proper that some business establishments operating within the jurisdiction of the village were issued business permits by Tuba.