The chairman and CEO of the Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), Alejandro Tengco, disclosed intentions to make a big change to the regulatory body’s approach. Speaking at a gaming conference in Manila on September 10, Tengco announced that Pagcor will begin selling off its casino assets in 2026, a year later than initially planned. With this choice, Pagcor has made it apparent that it will now only concentrate on its regulatory obligations.
Tengco said, “This transition will prevent Pagcor from competing with its own licensees and provide a level playing field for all stakeholders.” The ruling resolves long-standing complaints about Pagcor’s twin function as a casino operator and regulator, which many have seen as creating a conflict of interest.
Details on the Asset Sale and Upgrades
Pagcor’s extensive portfolio includes up to 45 gaming halls, with nine operating under the Casino Filipino brand. The anticipated sale could generate approximately ₱50 billion (£682 million/€807 million/$891 million). In preparation for this transition, Pagcor will continue to enhance the value of its assets. This month, the corporation plans to install 2,000 new slot machines across its gaming halls, all of which are situated on leased properties.
Tengco expressed confidence that these upgrades and the impending sale will solidify the Philippines’ position as a leader in gaming industry innovations within the Asia-Pacific region. “With all these initiatives and preparations, we are confident that the Philippines will remain at the forefront of gaming industry innovations,” he said.
Industry insiders have responded favorably to the announcement. Alliance Global Inc.’s owner and well-known billionaire, casino mogul Kevin Tan, commended the action. Tan stated, “This will ensure long-term viability and growth for the gaming sector and promote fairness among industry players.” His business, AGI, is creating additional casino resorts in Cebu and Boracay in addition to running Newport World Resorts in Manila.
Tengco also talked about how the sale would affect the workers in the casinos. He guaranteed that severance compensation would be given to individuals impacted and that the successful bidders would be obliged to keep between 50% and 70% of the current personnel. In order to make the sale possible, Pagcor will also need to modify its charter; this procedure should be finished by the end of the following year.
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