The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) inaugurated last week a new socio-civic center in Barangay San Gregorio, Laurel, Batangas — a facility designed to serve as both an evacuation site during disasters and a venue for community activities.
In a statement, PAGCOR said the two-story, ₱50 million building features multipurpose halls, kitchens, restrooms, and other disaster-resilient amenities to ensure functionality in both emergencies and daily use.
PAGCOR Assistant Vice President for Community Relations and Services Department (CRSD) Eric Balcos, who turned over the building to Laurel Mayor Lyndon Bruce, said the new structure demonstrates PAGCOR’s commitment to safeguard and uplift communities that are prone to natural calamities.
Laurel, located near Taal Volcano, is one of the municipalities frequently affected during volcanic unrest, with residents often needing evacuation and experiencing prolonged disruptions to normal life.
To date, PAGCOR has completed 50 socio-civic centers nationwide, with 22 more under construction.
The program is part of the agency’s initiative to channel gaming revenues into community projects that strengthen disaster preparedness and improve the quality of life in local communities.