Melco Resorts was recognized for its commitment to responsible gambling. In China’s Macau, the Philippines, and, soon, Europe, the company has integrated casino resorts.
The Hong Kong-based casino giant recently revealed that it is the first integrated resort (IR) operating in Macau and the Philippines to be awarded an “RG Check” from the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC).
The RGC, which is based in Ontario, Canada, describes the RG Check as “the world’s most comprehensive and rigorous responsible gaming accreditation program.” The RG Check, according to the council, allows patrons to know that the casino follows the highest levels of responsible gaming standards.
Melco’s entire portfolio, including Altira Macau, City of Dreams Macau, Studio City, and City of Dreams Manila, has received RG Checks. RG Check accreditations are valid for up to three years.
Responsible Gaming Importance
The Responsible Gambling Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing damage from problem gambling around the world. The group is in support of regulations and protocols that would enable casinos to be integrated into communities that want to legalize gambling.
For land-based casinos, the RG Check accreditation process consists of eight key areas. According to the RGC, the casino and operator must show that they understand and are aware of how gambling can affect certain people, have a well-managed and well-marketed self-exclusion program, facilitate responsible money transfers and/or gaming credit, and provide a gaming floor designed to prevent impulsive play.
Casinos must also provide programs for gamblers that may be in danger, provide appropriate training for staff so that they can properly detect gaming addictions, and run a marketing and advertising campaign that does not confuse or target potentially vulnerable players.
RG Checked Casinos
The Responsible Gambling Council has only recently started offering its RG Check certificates for casinos outside of Canada.
Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore was the first integrated resort casino to receive the RG Check, which it received in December of 2018. Last October, Marina Bay Sands, also in Singapore, became the second.
The PokerStars.com online gaming platform is the only other casino firm with an RG Check outside of Canada.
