Gambling May Soon Become Reality East Of The Philippines

Gambling establishments are close to become a reality east of the Philippines, to the island of Rota, part of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Despite the fact that last Friday, the appropriation bill almost failed at the House of Representatives, the measure is now up at the Senate.

In an effort to boost economic development of Rota, Representative Crispin M. Ogo, who authored the initiative has been reported as saying this measure is crucial. One half million dollars is expected to be transferred from a previous road construction project, Route 100, once this measure is passed. Representative Ogo has also been reported saying Rout 100 has no hope in beginning anytime soon.

The Rota Casino Initiative will create a Rota Casino Gaming Commission consisting of five Mayor approved and Municipal Council approved members. The Commission would have the authority to impose license application fees up to $100,000 and first year annual license fees up to $200,000. This Act will not impose restrictions on the total of casino licenses issued or the number of casinos an operator can own.

If the Initiative is passed, the island of Rota will also gain revenue through casino tax revenue thus furthering their economic growth. The tax will be equal to a casino's gross gaming revenue of up to five percent.