Pagcor Names New President & COO

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) has announced the appointment of lawyer Wilma Eisma as its new president and COO. The decision comes as Pagcor prepares to privatize its casinos and focus on regulatory functions. With her extensive experience in both the government and private sectors, Eisma will bring a fresh perspectives and drive Pagcor’s growth the organisation said.

Eisma’s appointment as the new president and COO of Pagcor marks a transformative moment for the organization. Following the resignation of Juanito Sansosa Jr earlier this year, Eisma steps into this crucial role with a proven track record of leadership. With her legal expertise and profound understanding of the industry, Eisma is well-positioned to steer Pagcor towards a future of innovation and progress.

Wilma Eisma brings a wealth of experience to her new position at Pagcor. Before joining the organization, she held several notable roles in both the public and private sectors. Eisma was the first female administrator and chair of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, where she led groundbreaking initiatives and spearheaded the growth of the region. Additionally, she held leadership positions at PMFTC, the Philippine affiliate of Philip Morris International, and the Department of Trade and Industry.

As Pagcor sets its sights on privatizing its casinos, Eisma’s appointment could not have come at a more opportune time. This strategic move, scheduled for implementation in late 2025, will enable Pagcor to focus on its regulatory functions while creating room for expansion and upgrades. By spinning off its casino business to a private bidder, Pagcor aims to optimize its resources and drive growth in the industry.

Pagcor’s decision to privatize its casinos aligns with its broader vision of becoming a “purely regulatory” body. This forward-thinking approach will allow Pagcor to streamline its operations, enhance efficiency, and create a more conducive environment for industry players. With Eisma at the helm, Pagcor is poised to lead the way in shaping the future of the Philippine gaming landscape.

The official announcement of Wilma Eisma’s appointment as president and COO of Pagcor was made after she took her oath of office. This significant event, witnessed by Pagcor Chair Alejandro Tengco and Pagcor’s executive secretary Lucas Bersamin, marks the beginning of a new chapter for Pagcor under Eisma’s leadership. Her oath of office demonstrates her commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

Wilma Eisma’s impressive educational background has played a pivotal role in shaping her career and prepared her for the challenges she will face as Pagcor’s president and COO. Eisma earned her law degree from Atena de Manula University, where she honed her legal acumen and developed a deep understanding of the complexities of the gaming industry. This solid foundation will undoubtedly serve her well in her new role.

Alejandro Tengco, Pagcor’s chair, expressed his delight in welcoming Wilma Eisma to the organization as its new president and COO. Tengco emphasized Eisma’s vast experience in both the public and private sectors and highlighted her potential as a valuable asset to Pagcor. He expressed confidence in Eisma’s ability to leverage her expertise to drive the organization forward and achieve new heights of success.

The privatization of Pagcor’s casinos will pave the way for expansion and upgrades within the organization. By divesting its casino business to a private bidder, Pagcor will have the flexibility to invest in improving its facilities and services. This move is expected to attract more players and enhance the overall gaming experience in the Philippines, solidifying the country’s position as a key player in the global gaming industry.

In a bid to attract more operators and combat illegal gambling, Pagcor announced a reduction in rates for operators starting from April 1st. This proactive step aims to create a more competitive environment and encourage illegal operators to obtain licenses from Pagcor. By lowering rates, Pagcor seeks to strike a balance between regulatory requirements and fostering a thriving gaming ecosystem in the Philippines.