Pagcor to go big-time in sports

Using as anchor its respectable finish in the Tour Pilipinas 2003 where skipper Rhyan Tanguilig placed a remarkable fourth place, PAGCORSports is now bound to go for more of the bigtime in sports.

"This is just the beginning," stressed leading sports patron Efraim Genuino, chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor).

Backed by the might of the country’s third top-earning government firm, PAGCORSports, Genuino reiterated, is raring to achieve greater heights.

Industry observers noted that Genuino is on track in transforming the state-run gaming firm from merely being the biggest financier of sports development into an active participant, introducing a nationwide program that aims to substantially increase the private sector’s patronage to local sports development.

"It’s a new image and a new focus all in all," said Genuino. "It’s not just about providing financial assistance, it is also about making Pagcor’s presence felt on a personal level."

Genuino noted that PAGCOR’s participation in the Tour ran in line with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s call for government’s active participation in practically all sectors of society.

"President Arroyo has made it clear that we in government should take a hands-on approach to any endeavor we undertake. Only in this way will we be able to become dynamic partners of the government in nation-building," Genuino said.

Cesar Lobramonte, coach of Pagcor ports, cited Pagcor’s support to the team. "Lahat ng sabi ni chairman [Genuino] na ibigay sa Team ay ibinigay ng PAGCOR" food, accommodation, energy drinks at vitamins. Sa personal touch ng PAGCOR, wala na kaming mahihiling pa."