President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has praised the Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation for the big role it plays in nation-building as the agency marked its 40th anniversary Tuesday evening.
“Since its inception, the men and women of PAGCOR have carried a profound sense of responsibility in the performance of their duties and are trusted with upholding the highest standards within the gaming industry. You went beyond fulfilling your corporate task and played an active part in nation-building,” the President said.
PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco, for his part, underscored the commitment of every PAGCOR employee and official to achieve financial success and create a social impact.
“Your passion is phenomenal and your commitment is beyond question. Truly, all of you are PAGCOR’s pride,” Tengco said in his speech.
and CEO Alejandro Tengco
Tengco said the agency’s total Contributions to Nation Building (CNB) amounted to around P607 billion in the past four decades, while its total dividend remittances since 2011 stood at P64 billion.
Under the Marcos administration, Tengco said PAGCOR’s total CNB totaled to P45 billion, with the agency targeting to reach P70 billion by the end of the year.
Among the programs implemented by PAGCOR are the construction of classrooms and multi-purpose evacuation centers as well as grants of assistance or subsidies to institutions, government offices, and individuals.
The corporation also supports the funding of the programs under the Universal Health Care, the Philippines Sports Commission, and the Dangerous Drugs Board.
Tengco said PAGCOR, in partnership with Melco Resorts Foundation Corporation and Bloomberry Foundation, funded the construction of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) Station Hospital with a 51-bed capacity and the OFW Hospital and Diagnostic Center with a 100-bed capacity.
He also announced the launch of the “Bawat Buhay Mahalaga Serbisyo Caravan” which he described as “an all-encompassing endeavor focused on the distribution of educational, medical, and financial assistance, among others, to various local government units and their citizens.”
“We will also donate 250 units of Patient Transport Vehicles all over the Philippines, in coordination with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO),” he said.
As this developed, Mr. Marcos called on PAGCOR to maintain its commitment to combating illicit activities and ensuring responsible practices within the gaming industry.
“Let this anniversary, therefore, be a call to the future—a future where PAGCOR is at the front and center in reshaping the gaming landscape with responsible practices, unwavering integrity, and a steadfast commitment to combating illicit activities,” the President said.