PAGCOR’s tourism, health, wellness role highlighted at hwonfex 2026

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) underscored its role in supporting the country’s tourism, healthcare and wellness sectors at the Health & Wellness Conference and Expo (HWONFEX) 2026 on Friday, 4 September.

Speaking on behalf of Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, PAGCOR Health Services and Wellness Department Officer-in-Charge Dr. Janice Saraza said the agency’s contribution to national development extends beyond its role as a gaming regulator.

“The industry that we regulate is part of a much larger entertainment and tourism ecosystem,” Dr. Saraza said.

“Our licensed integrated resorts, for one, attract visitors, create employment, support businesses and generate significant economic activity,” she added.

Positive contributions to tourism

Dr. Saraza said PAGCOR also ensures that the gaming and entertainment sectors contribute positively to the tourism industry while maintaining safeguards for player protection.

She said revenues generated by PAGCOR help fund government programs and projects in key sectors, including healthcare, education and social development.

Strong partnerships

“We have 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 to communities that need them most,” Dr. Saraza said.

She also highlighted PAGCOR’s efforts to promote mental and emotional well-being through the National Problem Gambling Helpline.

“We recently partnered with the Seagulls Flock Organization to establish a 24/7 helpline that provides confidential counseling and professional referrals for individuals experiencing problem gambling,” she said. “These efforts reflect a simple but important truth: promoting well-being is not the responsibility of one sector alone.”