MANILA - Senate President Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III on Sunday said the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and gaming centers should help prevent gambling addiction among their patrons.

Pimentel made the call after the PNP identified the gunman in the Resorts World Manila attack as a casino gambler who sank deep in debt because of his vice.

"As the state-owned operator of casinos and other gaming activities, Pagcor should implement a counseling program for gambling addicts, with the help of casino franchises," Pimentel said in a text message.

The police identified the lone gunman in the deadly Resorts World Manila incident as Jessie Javier Carlos, 42, a former employee of the Department of Finance who incurred millions of pesos in debt due to gambling.

Pagcor, for its part, said it has set up a 24/7 hotline and partnered with Help Centers in the country to assist those who wish to be rehabilitated from their gambling problem.

Minors and known addicted gamblers are denied entry to gaming centers, the agency said.