Rama opposes internet casino

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Michael Rama is saying no to the operation of a Pagcor-accredited internet casino station in one of the barangays of the city.

Rama vetoed the City Council Resolution No. 12-2383-2011 approving the application of the Queen City E-gaming Corp. to operate an internet casino station at the Paseo Phase 2 in Panagdait Barangay Kasambagan.

     “I am manifesting my objection to Resolution No. 12-2383-2011 for being contrary to City Ordinance No. 1860,” Rama said.

City Ordinance No. 1860 states that, “it is unlawful to install, establish and operate internet casino gaming on internet cafes and other similar establishments within the city’s territorial jurisdiction.”

The City Council approved in March the Queen City E-gaming Corporation’s application to operate an internet casino.

The corporation is among the more than 180 bingo parlors and e-games internet cafes that the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) operates in major cities across the country.

Councilor Raul Alcoseba recommended the approval of the application of Queen City E-gaming Corporation being the chairman of the committee on games, amusements and sports.

The corporation also has a certificate to operate from Pagcor. However, Rama said the certificate to operate from Pagcor has a limitation.

Rama cited the Republic Act 9487 or the Pagcor charter which states that, “the corporation shall obtain the consent of the local government unit that has territorial jurisdiction over the area chosen as the site for any of its operation.” – (FREEMAN)