The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) saw a significant increase in revenue of over 40% in 2024, reaching approximately 1117.2 billion pesos, with more than 60% of the funds used for government projects and the PhilHealth medical insurance program. According to data released by PAGCOR, about 682 billion pesos were allocated to national construction projects, a 38% increase from 2023.
In terms of fund allocation, approximately 267.4 billion pesos were used for company operational expenses, with a net income of 167.68 billion pesos. According to Presidential Decree 1869, the government should receive at least half of PAGCOR's total revenue, which in 2024 amounts to about 462.7 billion pesos, of which approximately 231.4 billion pesos were used to expand and improve PhilHealth medical services, while supporting the Department of Health's hospital zero balance policy.
The second largest use of PAGCOR funds was for social welfare projects, totaling about 123.75 billion pesos, including the Presidential Social Fund, water resources construction, community livelihood, street children services, and post-disaster reconstruction. Disaster relief expenditures in 2024 were 3.246 billion pesos, with additional funds of 4.3834 billion pesos provided to other government agencies and non-governmental organizations. As a state-owned enterprise, PAGCOR is also required to pay a 5% franchise tax and corporate income tax.
Looking ahead to the first half of 2025, revenues are expected to be 590.6 billion pesos, of which 381 billion pesos will be used for government construction projects. The company plans to collaborate with the Department of Education and the Department of Public Works and Highways to build 1200 classrooms and 200 e-learning centers in remote areas over the next three years, and to construct 100 community health and social service centers.
Despite PAGCOR's substantial contributions, some legislators warn against over-reliance on gambling revenue, especially online gambling, due to its potential impact on families and youth. PAGCOR expects the total revenue for 2025 to reach 1166.5 billion pesos, with about 770 billion pesos remitted to the treasury.
