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, September 4.
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.
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.
The Health & Wellness Conference and Expo (HWONFEX 2026) opened on September 4, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to promote health, wellness and the country’s growing wellness economy.
“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 likewise highlighted PAGCOR’s efforts to promote mental and emotional well-being through the National Problem Gambling Helpline.
“This is why we recently partnered with the Seagulls Flock Organization to establish a 24/7 helpline that provides confidential counseling and professional referrals for individuals who are experiencing problem gambling,” she said.
“These efforts reflect a simple but important truth: promoting well-being is not the responsibility of one sector alone.”
HWONFEX 2026 is a holistic healing and well-being expo and B2B2C trade fair that seeks to promote the Philippines as a wellness tourism destination in Southeast Asia.
With the theme, “Go Explore, Grow Communities, Glow Together,” this year’s event brought together government agencies, industry stakeholders and wellness advocates to explore opportunities for the growth of the country’s health and wellness economy.