Casino-related kidnappings

Recently, there have been reports about an increase in kidnapping cases of casino players perpetuated mostly by loan sharks in the casinos.

In the light of these events, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) organized a meeting with licensed casino operators in the Entertainment City and Clark as well with the representatives of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to address these casino-related kidnappings.

PAGCOR and the major players in the local gaming industry denounce these criminal acts and we will not sit idly in the face of these injustices.

Hence, to safeguard the integrity of gaming and entertainment business in the country, PAGCOR, along with our casino licensees, will strengthen our security protocols by enhancing casino surveillance facilities such as facial recognition cameras; enable information sharing among casino operators on suspected criminals; augment security personnel; and constantly coordinate with concerned government agencies such as the PNP, BI, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the casino host cities.

We likewise intend to accredit and regulate casino financiers subject to the implementing rules and regulations on lending companies by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and Exchange Commission and other regulatory agencies.

PAGCOR believes that while gaming contributes significantly to government revenues, it must not be used as a vehicle for abuse and injustices. As the country’s gaming regulator, we condemn these dreadful acts and we will ensure that the local gaming industry will maintain the integrity of its operations. – Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation