In a shocking turn of events, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the immediate shutdown of several casinos in the country that cater primarily to foreign gamblers. The decision, which was made in consultation with former First Lady Imelda Marcos, comes as part of a sweeping crackdown on the gambling industry in the Philippines.
The casinos, which are located in Manila’s bustling Entertainment City district, have long been popular destinations for high-rolling gamblers from China, South Korea, and other countries in Asia. The establishments have attracted controversy in recent years due to their alleged links to money laundering and other forms of illegal activity.
President Duterte, who has made combating corruption and criminality a cornerstone of his administration, has been vocal in his opposition to the proliferation of casinos in the Philippines. In a statement released earlier today, Duterte cited concerns about the negative impact of gambling on society, particularly on vulnerable populations such as the poor and the youth.
Former First Lady Imelda Marcos, who is known for her extravagant lifestyle and ties to the gambling industry, has reportedly been instrumental in the decision to shut down the casinos. Marcos, who famously amassed a vast fortune during her husband Ferdinand Marcos’ tenure as President of the Philippines, is believed to have close ties to the owners of the casinos in question.
The move to close the casinos has sparked outrage among some in the gambling industry, who argue that the decision will have a devastating impact on the economy. The casinos in Entertainment City are major employers in the region, and their closure is expected to result in thousands of job losses.
However, supporters of the shutdown argue that the casinos have long operated with impunity, flouting regulations and engaging in illegal activities with no consequence. They believe that the closure of these establishments is a necessary step in the fight against corruption and organized crime in the Philippines.
As the affected casinos begin the process of winding down their operations, questions remain about the future of the gambling industry in the Philippines. With President Duterte and Imelda Marcos at the helm, it seems likely that more changes are on the horizon for the once-thriving sector. Only time will tell what impact this decision will have on the country’s economy and reputation in the global gambling community.
