Politicians also banned
Philippines’ state-run gaming regulator has advised casino operators that their licenses could be permanently revoked and their resorts shut down if they allow minors on the gaming floor.
A 2016 circular issued by the office of the president also forbid all government officials and employees and their relatives from entering casinos along with members of the armed forces and national police; gaming employment license-holders; and people included in the National Database of Restricted Persons.
According to CalvinAyre.com, the ban on government officials entering casinos was Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s way “to promote a high standard of ethics in public service.” If any government official or personnel enters a casino, it would be considered “conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service,” according to the regulator.
Casino operators that violate the law could face a penalty of PHP100,000 (US$1,980) per entry per individual classified as a “prohibited person,” according to PAGCOR.
The new consequences for serving minors will take effect January 1, according to GGRAsia, which added it is unclear if closure of a casino is the “maximum sanction or the only sanction on operators for allowing underage people inside a gaming venue.”
The circular stated that PAGCOR should “ensure strict observance” by all government officials of the rules.
