Pagcor shut down Casino Filipino Talisay in Cebu and Casino Filipino Tagum in Davao del Norte after both sites continued to lose money. Talisay’s losses jumped from P39.32 million in 2023 to P49.56 million in 2024, while Tagum’s deficit grew from P31.56 million to P36.93 million.
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These closures reflect Pagcor’s efforts to cut underperforming locations and raise concerns about the long-term viability of the Casino Filipino network.
The move also comes as Pagcor plans to sell off around 40 Casino Filipino branches nationwide, with privatization set to begin in early 2026.
This is part of the agency’s push to exit direct casino operations and focus solely on its role as a regulator.
Employees to Be Transferred
All 42 employees from Casino Filipino Talisay will be reassigned to various branches under Casino Filipino Cebu, while 33 employees from Casino Filipino Tagum will be transferred to different sites under Casino Filipino Grand Regal in Davao.
Management’s View
“Given the sustained financial strain, continuing operations at these sites is no longer feasible,” said Pagcor chair and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco.
“While our decision was driven by mounting financial losses, safeguarding the welfare of affected employees through job reassignment and comprehensive support programs is our top priority,” he added.
