Philippine Gaming Regulator Forfeits US$3.5 Million in Casino Winnings by Government Employees

The Philippine Gaming Regulatory Authority (PAGCOR) has forfeited or retained over PHP200 million (US$3.5 million) in casino winnings from government employees from January to July 2025.

According to local media, the forfeited or retained winnings include local government officials, government employees, and other workers who are prohibited from entering or participating in gambling activities nationwide. The ban is imposed under Memorandum Circular No. 06, which prohibits government employees from entering or playing in casinos.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has said it will prosecute government employees if they are caught gambling during work hours, whether at online or brick-and-mortar casinos.

Alejandro Tengco, Chairman and CEO of Pagcor, told True FM radio about the voided winnings: “Even if they appeal, we will never give them back their winnings.”

The voiding of the P200 million winnings was the result of a “secondary verification” conducted at the casino to identify individuals who have been banned from gambling. The second verification occurs after a player reports winnings.

The policy is aimed at maintaining ethical standards and trust in the public service, as well as preventing violations that arise from conflicts of interest related to gambling.