Pagcor to tighten security in casinos

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) will tighten security at casinos – including upgrading surveillance facilities – to address rising cases of gambling-related crimes particularly kidnapping of casino players.

In a statement, Pagcor said it has already organized a meeting with licensed casino operators in Entertainment City and in Clark, Pampanga, as well as with representatives of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to discuss the problem.

The PNP-AKG has documented about 19 casino-related kidnapping incidents from January to August this year, as against the 16 cases recorded in the same period last year.

Along with major players in the local gaming industry, Pagcor said it denounces these criminal acts and “will not sit idly in the face of these injustices.”

“Hence, to safeguard the integrity of gaming and entertainment business in the country, Pagcor, along with our casino licensees, will strengthen our security protocols by enhancing casino surveillance facilities such as facial recognition cameras; enable information sharing among casino operators on suspected criminals; augment security personnel; and constantly coordinate with concerned government agencies such as the PNP, BI, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the casino host cities,” it said in a statement.

Pagcor also revealed plans to accredit and regulate casino financiers subject to the implementing rules and regulations for lending companies laid down by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory agencies.

Pagcor pointed out that while gaming contributes significantly to government revenues, it must not be used as a vehicle for abuse and injustices.

“As the country’s gaming regulator, we condemn these dreadful acts and we will ensure that the local gaming industry will maintain the integrity of its operations,” it said.