PAGCOR, PCSO ready to redirect funds for crisis response
Philippine government-owned gaming agencies have indicated their willingness to realign portions of their corporate budgets to support government programmes during times of crisis.
On Tuesday, officials from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) made the remarks during a Senate hearing on proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 11310, or the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) law. The session was chaired by Sen. Erwin Tulfo, head of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development.
Tulfo raised concerns over the government’s capacity to sustain funding for key agencies amid ongoing global pressures, particularly the economic effects of the Middle East conflict. He questioned whether gaming-linked state firms could step in should frontline agencies face budget shortfalls.
Agency reiterates existing fiscal commitments
Responding to the inquiry, PAGCOR underscored its contributions to public finances, noting that a substantial share of its revenues is already channelled to national development.
“Last year, we had a total income of PHP106 billion ($1.8 billion), PHP66 billion ($1.1 billion) of that, we provided as contributions to nation-building. Fifty percent of our income goes to the national government,” Atty. Janiene Marian Javier, PAGCOR representative, said.
Despite these obligations, Javier signalled openness to further support if required. “If the concerned agencies can suggest how we can provide assistance, this is something surely that we can take into consideration, given our funding obligations,” she said.
Electronic and online gaming have become the primary driver of PAGCOR’s revenues, generating PHP53.33 billion ($930.6 million) in 2025 and accounting for more than half of total gaming income. The segment grew 9.30 percent year-on-year, helping offset declines in land-based casino earnings. PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco earlier said the agency has strengthened regulatory measures to ensure player protection, transparency, and responsible gaming as online participation continues to expand.
Realignment possible within programmed allocations
For its part, PCSO emphasised that its funds are largely pre-allocated to specific programmes, particularly in health and social welfare, but acknowledged that adjustments could be made under exceptional circumstances.
PCSO official Atty. Lauro Patiag explained that while the agency’s corporate operating budget is approved in advance, there is scope for flexibility. “It is possible that if there is a need, one programme may be considered for realignment in that budgeting programme,” he said.
Gaming revenues remain a key public funding source
The discussion highlights the critical role of gaming-derived revenues in funding public programmes in the Philippines. Last year, on behalf of the National Treasury, Deputy National Treasurer Eduardo Anthony Mariño, received PAGCOR’s contribution to the agency. Mariño acknowledged the timely support PAGCOR provides to the government’s fiscal goals.
“This substantial dividend contribution will go a long way in boosting our fiscal resources and furthering the administration’s development agenda,” Mariño said. He added that the funds will help finance infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other social services.
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