Law Summary

Introduction

This ordinance regulates the operation of electronic games (e-Games), bingo games, and other games of chance within Quezon City, establishing penalties for violations. It aims to protect the sanctity of the Filipino family and prevent gambling's adverse effects on family dynamics.

Declaration of Policy

• Legal Principle: The ordinance affirms the State's commitment to protecting family integrity by regulating gambling activities.
• Key Definitions:
  • Gambling: Activities that divert time from productive family engagement.
• Important Requirements:
  • Compliance with the Local Government Code of 1991 (Section 458).

Definition of Terms

• Key Definitions:
  • Barangay: Local community unit as per the Local Government Code.
  • Bingo: Game of chance using a matrix card with randomly drawn numbers.
  • e-Games: Online-based casino terminals regulated by PAGCOR.
  • Gaming Establishment: Venue for e-Games, bingo, and other games of chance.
  • Special Permit: Required for lawful operation of gaming establishments.

Persons Covered

• Legal Principle: Any natural or juridical person operating gaming activities must secure a special permit.
• Important Requirements:
  • Special permit is mandatory for all e-Games, bingo, and other games with prizes exceeding P30,000.

Qualifications of Applicants

• Key Requirements:
  • Natural persons must be at least 21 years old and Filipino citizens.
  • Juridical persons must be legally organized in the Philippines.
  • Must possess valid authority from PAGCOR or PCSO for operation.

Types of Special Permit

• Types:
  • Short Term Permit: Seasonal operations (1-3 days for bingo, 14 days for carnivals); valid for 1 year.
  • Fixed Term Permit: Regular operations for 2 years; subject to business evaluation for renewals.

Documentary Requirements

• Fixed Term Special Permit:
  • Identity proof, valid government ID for individuals, or registration for organizations.
  • Letter of No Objection from the Mayor’s Office.
  • Barangay resolution and project description.
• Short Term Permit:
  • Similar documentation with an emphasis on community-organized events.

Regulatory Requirements

• Key Requirements:
  • Compliance with distance regulations (200 meters from places of worship/learning, 300 meters from similar establishments).
  • Operation hours restricted (no earlier than 11:00 AM).
  • Admission limited to individuals aged 21 and above.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance:
  • Complaints can lead to investigations by the Committee on Games and Amusement.

Time of Application

• Deadlines:
  • Fixed term applications accepted anytime.
  • Short term applications must be submitted 45 days before events.
  • Renewal applications must be submitted 60 days prior to expiration.

Grounds for Disapproval or Revocation

• Key Grounds:
  • Non-appearance at hearings, falsification of documents, operation without a permit, violations of regulatory requirements.

Barangay and Community-Organized Bingo Games

• Key Points:
  • Games with prizes not exceeding P20,000 do not require permits.
  • For larger prizes, documentation must be submitted 30 days prior to events.

Cockfighting Activities

• Key Points:
  • Short term permits allowed only during barangay patronal fiestas.
  • Compliance with specified conditions regarding distance from educational and worship institutions.

Effect of Lack of Special Permit

• Legal Principle: No business permit will be issued without a special permit; unauthorized operations can lead to closure.

Taxes, Fees, and Charges

• Key Requirements:
  • All gaming establishments must pay 3% of gross sales and relevant taxes according to the Quezon City Revenue Code.

Penalties

• Short Term Permit Violations:
  • Fines of P5,000 or imprisonment of 1 year.
• Fixed Term Permit Violations:
  • First offense: P5,000 fine.
  • Second offense: 30-day suspension and P5,000 fine.
  • Third offense: Cancellation of the permit.

Repealing Clause

• The ordinance repeals conflicting provisions in previous regulations.

Effectivity

• The ordinance takes effect immediately upon approval.

Key Takeaways

• This ordinance establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for gambling activities in Quezon City, emphasizing the protection of family values.
• It outlines specific requirements for permits, regulatory compliance, and penalties for violations, ensuring that all gaming establishments operate within defined legal parameters.
• The ordinance aims to balance community interests with the operational needs of gaming establishments while maintaining public order and welfare.