PAGCOR Expects Near-Term GCG Decision on Separating Regulatory and Commercial Roles
PAGCOR anticipates an imminent GCG decision on decoupling its dual functions, with potential endorsement to the President and an Executive Order to follow. Tengco stressed eliminating regulatory conflicts and adapting to rapid evolution in electronic gaming. Preparations are already underway to refocus the agency on pure regulation.
SCCG Take — Decoupling would resolve PAGCOR’s inherent conflict of interest and sharpen its regulatory focus amid industry shifts. Philippine operators should prepare for tighter, independent oversight once an Executive Order takes effect.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation expects a decision from the Governance Commission for Government-Owned or-Controlled Corporations on its proposal to separate regulatory and commercial functions very soon. Alejandro H. Tengco, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO, delivered the update in his keynote address at the IAG Academy Summit 2026 at Newport World Resorts Manila.
According to G3 Newswire, Tengco said on September 15 that the proposal remains under review by the GCG. Once that review concludes, the GCG will endorse the plan to the Office of the President. An Executive Order would implement the separation if the President finds merit in the proposal.
Institutional Reform and Preparatory Steps
Tengco described decoupling as a major institutional reform with legal, financial, operational and human resource implications. Every step must be carefully considered and properly executed. PAGCOR has begun preparing for the changes, including a future in which the agency devotes its resources and expertise primarily to regulation.
“This is not about how much we will generate. It is about strengthening PAGCOR, and with its strength, we can do our work better,” Tengco said. He cited the inherent conflict in having PAGCOR regulate an industry where it also operates. “You do not want a regulator to regulate its own operations,” Tengco said.
The Imperative to Evolve with the Industry
Tengco noted that the gaming landscape has changed significantly since Casino Filipino was established. Private sector licensees have transformed the field, particularly in electronic gaming. “The reality is that the industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and nowhere is that transformation more visible than in Electronic Gaming,” Tengco said.
“To remain competitive, institutions must evolve as rapidly as the industries they regulate,” he added. Tengco expressed hope that the proposal secures the necessary approvals, calling the separation an important step toward building a stronger and more focused gaming regulator.
The forthcoming GCG decision will determine whether this restructuring advances, directly shaping how PAGCOR balances oversight demands against commercial realities in a fast-moving market.
Reporting: G3 Newswire
Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.
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