LAUREL, Batangas – The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) on Tuesday, October 28, inaugurated its 50th socio-civic center in this lakeside town with a restive Taal Volcano in the background, highlighting recurring challenges to residents and nearby communities.

The Php50 million facility in Barangay San Gregorio is designed to serve as both an evacuation site during disasters and as a venue for social and community activities.

The two-story building boasts of multi-purpose halls, kitchens, restrooms, and other disaster-resilient amenities to ensure functionality in both emergencies and day-to-day 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 reflects the state gaming agency’s commitment to safeguard and uplift communities vulnerable to natural calamities.

"Lahat ng mga ito ay idinisenyo para sa kaligtasan, kaginhawahan, at dignidad ng ating mga kababayan," Balcos said, emphasizing PAGCOR" continuing efforts to support disaster-prone areas.

Mayor Bruce for his part expressed gratitude for PAGCOR’s assistance, describing the project as a symbol of cooperation among the local government, residents, and the agency.

"Ang proyektong ito ay bunga ng malasakit at pagtutulungan ng PAGCOR, ng pamahalaang lokal, at ng mamamayan ng bayan ng Laurel," he said. "Kapag ang puso at serbisyo ay iisa, walang unos o pagputok ng bulkan na kayang umadlang sa ating pag-unlad".

Situated along the shore of Taal Lake, Laurel is among the most vulnerable municipalities during periods of volcanic unrest, with its residents often needing evacuation and suffering prolonged disruptions to day-to-day activities.

To date, PAGCOR has completed 50 socio-civic centers nationwide, with 22 more under construction, as part of the agency’s thrust to channel gaming revenues into community projects that enhance disaster preparedness and improve the quality of life in local communities.