
In a keynote delivered at the IAG Academy Summit in Manila, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco revealed that the agency has formally submitted documentation to the Governance Commission for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GCG) seeking approval to privatize its Casino Filipino properties. This move marks a significant step in decoupling PAGCOR’s simultaneous regulator and operator roles, a structure Tengco likened to “a referee also playing on the same court.”
Tengco emphasized that restructuring PAGCOR’s responsibilities requires "careful legal consideration,” citing the existing framework set by Presidential Decree 1869 and the Republic Act 9487 amendment. The GCG is currently reviewing the submitted documents, and a timely decision is being keenly hoped for to advance the reorganization plan.
While awaiting approval, PAGCOR is continuing its efforts to modernize and elevate the competitiveness of its assets. This includes ongoing renovation of Casino Filipino facilities and upgrades to gaming infrastructure and equipment, laying the groundwork for a smoother privatization process and enhancing asset appeal for potential buyers.