By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has announced that Iloilo will now be a recipient of the Host Cities’ Share (HCS) program, entitling it to a monthly allocation of P1 million.
The allocation comes as part of PAGCOR’s efforts to extend support to cities and provinces hosting Casino Filipino branches.
The decision was formalized through a resolution by the PAGCOR Board of Directors on December 13, 2023, and subsequently approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on February 27, 2024.
Under the said resolution, the scope of beneficiaries has been extended from 14 LGUs to 43, including the province of Iloilo, which had not previously been part of the HSC program as it is not a host to a Casino Filipino branch.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. was informed of the development through a letter from PAGCOR Chairperson and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco.
“We are pleased to inform you that effective January 2024, the Province of Iloilo will now receive a monthly allocation of One Million Pesos for hosting CG branches in your locality,” Tengco stated.
The tangible manifestation of this commitment was witnessed on Friday, April 12, when Victor de Leon, the Branch Manager of Casino Filipino Bacolod, presented Gov. Defensor with a check worth P2 million, covering the months of January and February 2024, accompanied by officers from both Bacolod and Iloilo branches.
Atty. Teddy Velasco, Senior Branch Legal Officer, emphasized the importance of the allocation, stating:
“This allocation signifies our gratitude for the enduring partnership between PAGCOR and your province. We firmly believe that it will serve as a crucial resource for enhancing various community development initiatives and projects, with the primary goal of improving the quality of life of your constituents.”
Gov. Defensor expressed gratitude for Iloilo’s inclusion in the program and acknowledged the potential impact of the funds on various community development initiatives and projects.
The allocated amount will be utilized following guidelines set for the handling and disposition of the host city’s share.
Eligible projects encompass self-sustainable livelihood endeavors, scholarships, infrastructure, sports, peace and order initiatives, social projects, and more.
