Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9487)
Republic Act No. 9487 further amends Presidential Decree No. 1869, also known as the PAGCOR Charter, to extend and define the franchise, powers, and terms under which the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) operates and regulates gambling activities in the Philippines.
The franchise granted to PAGCOR is extended for another period of twenty-five (25) years starting from July 11, 2008, renewable for another twenty-five (25) years.
PAGCOR is authorized to operate and license gambling casinos, gaming clubs, other similar recreation or amusement places, gaming pools (such as basketball, football, bingo), except jai-alai, within the territorial jurisdiction of the Philippines.
Yes, PAGCOR must obtain the consent of the local government unit that has territorial jurisdiction over the area chosen as the site for any of its operations.
Operations involving slot machines and gambling equipment are only allowed in establishments open or accessible to the general public if the site is a three-star hotel or resort accredited by the Department of Tourism and authorized by PAGCOR and the concerned local government unit.
PAGCOR's authority does not extend to: (1) games of chance authorized or regulated under existing franchises or other regulatory bodies; (2) games authorized by special laws such as Republic Act No. 7922; and (3) games like cockfighting authorized and regulated by local government units.
PAGCOR has the corporate power to enter into contracts of all kinds and for any lawful purpose necessary or incidental to its business, including investment, joint venture, management, agency, manpower supply agreements, or other similar arrangements with persons, firms, associations, or corporations.
All laws, decrees, executive orders, proclamations, rules, and regulations, or parts thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.
The Act took effect fifteen (15) days from the date of its publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation in the Philippines, following the initiative of the grantee.
The requirement ensures that local government units have jurisdictional authority and control over gambling activities within their territories, promoting local governance participation and oversight in PAGCOR operations.