Multiple epidemic prevention restrictions PAGCOR loses astronomical figures every month
In order to stop the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, Metro Manila, Philippines, was lockdown for a month from March 15, 2020. Since the outbreak, the cumulative number of diagnoses in the country has exceeded 4,900, and more than 300 people have died. Like many other countries around the world, the Philippine authorities have also taken measures to reduce the spread of the virus, including: conducting community quarantine in major cities such as the capital Manila.
However, despite the government taking a lot of such restrictions, it has caused a serious blow to the finances of the country’s gambling regulator PAGCOR. But Andrea Domingo, the organization’s chairman and chief executive officer, said that they will still do its utmost to assist the government to resist the spread of the Covid-19. To date, PAGCOR has allocated PHP20.5 billion to the Philippine government to support national policies which related to the pandemic. Domingo added that PAGCOR still tries its best to reach the communities that cannot meet the basic needs, and they should get all the help they provide.
In addition to providing financial assistance to the government, PAGCOR also follows government orders regarding social isolation measures. On March 9, the country ’s President Rodrigo Duterte declared a state of public health emergency; on March 16, Luzon, with a population of nearly 57 million, began to implement enhanced community quarantine. In addition, on March 15, PAGCOR ordered the temporary closure of all physical gambling facilities; on March 18, the suspend order expanded to the Philippines offshore gambling operators and their service providers. Andrea Domingo pointed out that at the beginning of the outbreak in the country, PAGCOR immediately closed all gambling facilities and tried its best to prohibit crowds from gathering, even if the move would have a negative impact on revenue.
Regarding PAGCOR’s cooperation with government policies, Andrea Domingo said that the gambling industry throughout the Philippines was hard hit by the pandemic, but the safety of employees, customers and the public is more important. PAGCOR also recently purchased PHP65 million worth of food to support frontline workers and communities who need more support during the epidemic. With the assistance of PAGCOR volunteer employees, the materials are repackaged and distributed. In addition to PAGCOR, its licensed operators also provide financial assistance and promise to provide PHP210 million funds; POGOs donate PHP150 million for personal protective equipment, food and other necessities.
