June 28, 2024 - The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) inaugurated its latest Socio-Civic Center in Barangay Pansipit, Agoncillo on Wednesday, June 26th. The Php50 million facility marks the completion of a project initiated two years ago in March 2022.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco led the ceremony for the two-story building. This modern structure boasts multi-functionality, serving as a venue for community events, social gatherings, educational activities, and local government programs. It can also function as an evacuation center during emergencies.
Chairman Tengco emphasized the project's significance in promoting community development and resilience. He highlighted PAGCOR's shift in naming these facilities, from multi-purpose evacuation centers to Socio-Civic Centers, reflecting their broader range of uses.
"We renamed these buildings Socio-Civic Centers because they should not only be used during disasters but also for various programs and activities," Tengco said.
The new center is expected to contribute significantly to Agoncillo's socio-economic growth. Its modern design and amenities make it an ideal venue for events, trainings, and conferences, benefiting surrounding communities.
This marks the 39th completed PAGCOR-funded Socio-Civic Center nationwide, with 33 more currently under construction. Additionally, PAGCOR donated two desktop computers to the Agoncillo municipal government during the ceremony.
Agoncillo Mayor Cinderella V. Reyes expressed her gratitude for PAGCOR's continuous support, particularly crucial for a town situated near the active Taal Volcano.
"We are deeply grateful to PAGCOR for their unwavering support," said Mayor Reyes. "This Socio-Civic Center will undoubtedly become a cornerstone structure, providing a venue for numerous activities that benefit our residents. We look forward to maximizing its potential to foster unity and progress in Agoncillo."
This recent project adds to PAGCOR's existing support for Agoncillo, a 4th-class municipality. In 2022, the town received Php30 million to construct a PAGCOR Village, a housing project offering safe and permanent shelter for families displaced by Taal's eruptions.