PAGCOR Details Philippine Gaming Industry’s Economic and Social Impact at HWONFEX 2026

PAGCOR, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, positioned the gaming industry as a significant contributor to tourism, healthcare, and social development in remarks delivered at the Health & Wellness Conference and Expo (HWONFEX) 2026. The regulator described how licensed integrated resorts attract international visitors, create jobs, and help fund key government initiatives, extending PAGCOR’s influence far beyond regulatory oversight.

PAGCOR's Expanded Mission: Beyond Gaming Regulation

Dr. Janice Saraza, Officer-in-Charge of PAGCOR’s Health Services and Wellness Department, addressed HWONFEX 2026 on behalf of Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco. In her keynote, Saraza emphasised, “The industry that we regulate is part of a much larger entertainment and tourism ecosystem.” The assertion situates PAGCOR not only as a regulator, but as an active architect of economic activity in the Philippines. Integrated casino resorts licensed by PAGCOR generate sustained visitor inflows, support employment across multiple sectors, and drive ancillary business growth within the entertainment and hospitality industries.

PAGCOR Revenues: Funding Healthcare and Social Initiatives

The regulator highlighted its unique model, where revenues generated from the gaming sector help finance national and local government programs. Notable areas receiving PAGCOR funding include healthcare, education, and social development. These inflows are channelled into construction of modern hospitals, provision of advanced medical equipment, and expansion of essential healthcare services in underserved communities. As Dr. Saraza put it, PAGCOR has “built strong partnerships with our integrated casino licensees to support the construction of modern hospitals, provide state-of-the-art medical equipment, and help make essential healthcare services more accessible.”

Safeguarding Tourism and Player Protection

PAGCOR’s approach positions responsible gaming as integral to the sustainability of tourism and entertainment sectors. Regulatory frameworks are designed to ensure that industry expansion does not compromise player protection standards. The agency works closely with its licensees to guarantee that activities remain compliant and supportive of safe entertainment environments. Dr. Saraza acknowledged this dual focus, stating that PAGCOR “ensures that the gaming and entertainment sectors contribute positively to the tourism industry while maintaining safeguards for player protection.”

Mental Health Initiatives: National Problem Gambling Helpline

Addressing social responsibility, Dr. Saraza flagged recent developments under PAGCOR’s harm minimisation remit. The agency has partnered with the Seagulls Flock Organization to establish a round-the-clock National Problem Gambling Helpline. This service delivers confidential counselling and facilitates professional referrals for individuals experiencing problem gambling. The initiative extends PAGCOR’s public health mandate, reinforcing its commitment to mental and emotional wellness. According to Saraza:

“This is why we recently partnered with the Seagulls Flock Organization to establish a 24/7 helpline that provides confidential counseling and professional referrals for individuals who are experiencing problem gambling.”

The helpline underlines PAGCOR’s position that “promoting well-being is not the responsibility of one sector alone.”

HWONFEX 2026: Focusing on Wellness Tourism and Cross-Sector Collaboration

HWONFEX 2026, offering the theme “Go Explore, Grow Communities, Glow Together,” convened government agencies, private stakeholders, and wellness advocates. Its scope as a holistic healing and well-being B2B2C expo underscores the potential for cross-sector initiatives in elevating the Philippines’ profile as a wellness tourism destination within Southeast Asia. Industry figures and regulators shared strategies to position the country at the forefront of wellness and health-related travel, aiming to capture regional growth trends.

The Role of Gaming in the Philippine Tourism and Health Landscape

Revenue from regulated gaming operations helps to diversify the national economy by reducing reliance on traditional sectors. By linking gaming to healthcare infrastructure and wellness advocacy, PAGCOR seeks to establish a more integrated model of industry contribution. The corporation advances both economic and non-economic objectives, leveraging its relationships with licensed integrated casino resorts and other partners. These efforts form a cornerstone of the Philippines’ broader strategy to compete as a regional leader in tourism and community health development.