Casinos commit to ethical, responsible gaming

Amid the growing concern about online gaming in the country, the integrated resorts said the core focus remains on delivering world-class hospitality, entertainment and leisure experiences.
STAR/File

MANILA, Philippines — Solaire Resort, Newport World Resorts and Okada Manila, operators of the largest integrated resorts in the Philippines, have affirmed their continued commitment to operating with the highest standards of integrity, transparency and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Amid the growing concern about online gaming in the country, the integrated resorts said the core focus remains on delivering world-class hospitality, entertainment and leisure experiences.

“Our online gaming operations are a regulated and responsibly managed extension of our operations – designed to complement our primary offerings. We prioritize ethical business practices and promote responsible gaming, under the robust regulation of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR),” they said in a statement. 

Since opening the integrated resorts in 2009 (Newport), 2013 (Solaire) and 2016 (Okada), the companies said they have consistently adhered to strict responsible gaming principles. These principles have seamlessly extended into all facets of online gaming platforms, reflecting their unwavering dedication to regulatory compliance and ethical operations.

“We hold all necessary licenses and accreditations from PAGCOR, meeting stringent legal requirements for gaming operators and system administrators,” they said. “We also strictly enforce PAGCOR’s geographic restrictions, employing advanced geo-fencing and IP-filtering technologies to prevent player registration and betting from outside the Philippines.”

Their platform also adheres rigorously to anti-money laundering regulations through comprehensive Know-Your-Customer (KYC) procedures and player verification within 72 hours of registration, ensuring the integrity of operations and safeguarding players.

“We actively promote responsible gaming through tools such as self-exclusion, deposit limits and account restrictions. We strictly prohibit minors from accessing our platform through our stringent age-gating system and verification. We likewise offer resources for individuals seeking assistance with gambling-related issues.”

They pointed out that all gaming equipment and games undergo rigorous evaluation and receive approval from PAGCOR prior to deployment. Certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) ensure fairness and transparency.

Promotional materials likewise undergo a thorough review and approval from PAGCOR and the Advertising Standards Council, ensuring ethical communication and social responsibility.

Each of the three operators has invested at least $1 billion to help the country boost its tourism industry by providing the public with exceptional and holistic leisure experiences that span not only casinos, but also hotels, restaurants, retail outlets, live performances and family entertainment.

The developments and operations of the four Entertainment City integrated resorts created jobs for 130,905 Filipinos over the years and, at present, there are 25,939 direct and 5,049 indirect employees.

The properties collectively attract over two million tourist visits annually, contributing significantly to local economic activity and the growth of the Philippine tourism sector.

The integrated resorts are also mandated to allocate two percent of their gross gaming revenues from non-junket tables for development projects donated by their respective foundations to support cultural heritage, educational and health initiatives.

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