City council okays bingo in Baguio; mayor rejects

By Dexter A. See

BAGUIO CITY -- Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong rejected two resolutions passed by the City Council approving the request of RCC Global Entertainment, Inc. to operate electronic and traditional bingo and other games authorized by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) located at Summer Pines Residences along Marcos Highway and at Cedar Peak along Mabini Street, respectively.
    In his letter dated April 21, 2021 addressed to the members of the city council through Vice Mayor Faustino A. Olowan and City Secretary Atty. Brenner L. Bengwayan, the mayor stated that he will not be affixing his signature on resolutions 208 and 209 both series of 2021 as he finds that the industry or activity on the operations of the said establishments requires prior public consultation.
    During their April 19 regular session, the City Council approved resolution 208, series of 2021 approving the gaming corporation’s application to put up an electronic and traditional bingo outlet at Cedar Peak along Mabini Street while Resolution No. 209, series of 2021 approved the similar application of the company for the put up of another e-bingo outlet at Summer Pines Residences along Marcos Highway.
    Under the internal rules and procedures of the local legislative body, the council needs at least two-thirds vote of all the members to override the decision of the mayor.