Pagcor denies owing Quezon City P100-million back taxes

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) yesterday denied reports that it owed the Quezon City government around P88 million to P100 million in back taxes.

Spokesman Dodie King said Pagcor, which operates e-games outlets, pays its tax obligations.

“We follow ordinances. All our income goes back to the government,” King said in a phone interview.

He said Pagcor’s books are open, and the firm can prove that it has settled all its tax obligations.

Quezon City Assistant Treasurer Ed Villanueva said on Sunday the city government is likely to run after at least 22 e-games outlets that allegedly owe the city as much as P100 million in back taxes.

City Councilor Ariel Inton said the operation of e-games outlets is subject to a three-percent franchise fee as provided for under a city resolution, which states that Pagcor Internet casinos should remit three percent of their gross revenue every year.        – Helen Flores