Gambling operators should course license applications to PNP

MANILA, Philippines — Gambling operators seeking a permit to operate from the government will have to course their applications through the Philippine National  Police.

PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) chairperson Andrea Domingo agreed in principle on the new setup during a meeting on Dec. 17.

The meeting focused on the issues of illegal gambling, especially the unregulated online gaming industry that proliferated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Based on the agreed conditions, gambling operators requesting certification will get the Pagcor’s approval only if they channel their applications through the office of the PNP chief.

PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Ildebrandi Usana said applicants would undergo strict vetting to weed out illegal gambling operators.

“The PNP will determine whether these people are legitimate gambling operators in accordance with Pagcor rules,” Usana said.

He said the talks between the two agencies are still ongoing and details have yet to be finalized.

During the meeting, Sinas and Domingo agreed that law enforcement operations are needed against those involved in illegal online games.

The PNP will verify first with Pagcor the legality of an online gaming operator before conducting raids.

Sinas urged the Pagcor to report police officers who are extorting money from gambling operators.

The PNP says it is strictly enforcing a “no-take policy” in the campaign against illegal gambling.

Pagcor has donated P500 million to the PNP for the construction of a medical facility at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig and another P100 million for hospital supplies and equipment.