7 Major Philippine Casino Gaming Companies
The Philippines has established itself as a significant player in the global casino gaming industry, offering an array of luxurious casino resorts and gaming establishments that attract both local and international visitors. The rise of integrated resorts and the legalization of online gaming have further boosted the industry’s growth. Here, we explore the major players in the Philippine casino gaming market, detailing their contributions, flagship properties, and overall impact on the industry.
Top Philippine Casino Gaming Companies
Casino gaming in the Philippines has evolved into a vibrant and lucrative industry, attracting millions of visitors annually. The sector’s growth has been fueled by the development of world-class integrated resorts in Entertainment City, Manila, as well as the expansion of regional casinos and the legalization of online gaming.
With the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) overseeing regulation and operation, the industry has maintained a balance between fostering economic growth and ensuring ethical gaming practices. The influx of foreign investment, coupled with strategic partnerships and innovative entertainment offerings, has positioned the Philippines as a premier destination for casino gaming in Asia.
1. Bloomberry Resorts Corporation
Flagship Property: Solaire Resort & Casino
Bloomberry Resorts Corporation is one of the leading casino operators in the Philippines. Founded by businessman Enrique K. Razon Jr., Bloomberry has made significant strides in the gaming and hospitality industry since its inception.
Solaire Resort & Casino, located in Entertainment City, Manila, is Bloomberry’s flagship property. Opened in 2013, Solaire is renowned for its luxurious accommodations, world-class gaming facilities, and extensive dining options. The resort features over 1,400 slot machines and 360 gaming tables, offering a wide variety of games to its patrons.
Solaire has set a high standard in the Philippine gaming industry with its commitment to excellence in service and infrastructure. The resort has not only attracted high rollers but also created significant employment opportunities, boosting the local economy.
2. Melco Resorts & Entertainment (Philippines) Corporation
Flagship Property: City of Dreams Manila
Melco Resorts & Entertainment (Philippines) Corporation, a subsidiary of the global Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited, has carved out a notable presence in the Philippines. Known for its innovative approach to gaming and entertainment, Melco has brought a touch of glamour and excitement to the local market.
City of Dreams Manila is an integrated resort that combines gaming, luxury accommodations, dining, and entertainment. It features three hotel brands: Nüwa, Nobu, and Hyatt, each offering unique experiences. The gaming floor includes over 1,600 slot machines and 380 gaming tables, catering to a wide range of gaming enthusiasts.
City of Dreams Manila has been instrumental in transforming the Entertainment City landscape. Its diverse entertainment offerings, including the DreamPlay theme park and The Garage VR Zone, have broadened the appeal of casino resorts beyond just gaming, attracting families and tourists.
3. Travellers International Hotel Group, Inc.
Flagship Property: Newport World Resorts
Travellers International Hotel Group, Inc., a joint venture between Alliance Global Group and Genting Hong Kong, operates Newport World Resorts. As a pioneer in the Philippine integrated resort industry, Travellers International has played a significant role in shaping the country’s casino gaming sector.
Located in Newport City, opposite Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, Newport World Resorts is the first integrated resort in the Philippines. It boasts a wide range of gaming options, including over 1,500 slot machines and 300 gaming tables. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations, high-end retail, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Newport World Resorts has been a trailblazer in the industry, setting the benchmark for future developments. Its strategic location and comprehensive amenities have made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike, contributing significantly to the growth of the Philippine gaming market.
4. Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc.
Flagship Property: Okada Manila
Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Japan-based Universal Entertainment Corporation, operates Okada Manila. Known for its opulence and cutting-edge technology, Okada Manila has quickly risen to prominence in the Philippine casino landscape.
Spanning 44 hectares, Okada Manila is one of the largest integrated resorts in Entertainment City. It features a casino with over 3,000 electronic gaming machines and 500 table games. The resort is also home to The Fountain, one of the world’s largest multicolor dancing fountains, and Cove Manila, an indoor beach club and nightclub.
Okada Manila has significantly elevated the standard of luxury and innovation in the Philippine gaming industry. Its spectacular attractions and state-of-the-art facilities have drawn international attention, further establishing the Philippines as a premier gaming destination.
5. PH Resorts Group Holdings, Inc.
Flagship Property: Emerald Bay Resort and Casino (Upcoming)
PH Resorts Group Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Udenna Corporation, is poised to make a significant impact on the Philippine gaming industry with its ambitious projects. Led by businessman Dennis Uy, PH Resorts aims to develop world-class integrated resorts that cater to both gaming and leisure travelers.
Currently under development in Mactan Island, Cebu, Emerald Bay Resort and Casino promises to be a game-changer in the region. The resort will feature a casino with a wide range of gaming options, luxury accommodations, and various dining and entertainment facilities. Scheduled to open in phases starting in 2022, Emerald Bay is expected to become a major draw for tourists and gaming enthusiasts.
Emerald Bay is set to boost tourism in Cebu and create significant employment opportunities. Its strategic location and comprehensive offerings are anticipated to attract a diverse clientele, further expanding the reach of the Philippine gaming market.
6. Belle Corporation
Flagship Property: City of Dreams Manila (Co-Developer)
Belle Corporation, a subsidiary of SM Investments Corporation, is a key player in the Philippine gaming industry through its involvement in City of Dreams Manila. Belle Corporation primarily focuses on real estate development, including the construction of luxury residential and commercial properties.
As a co-developer of City of Dreams Manila, Belle Corporation has contributed to the creation of one of the most iconic integrated resorts in the Philippines. The partnership with Melco Resorts & Entertainment has brought together Belle’s expertise in real estate and Melco’s experience in gaming and entertainment, resulting in a world-class destination.
Belle Corporation’s collaboration on City of Dreams Manila highlights the importance of strategic partnerships in the development of integrated resorts. The success of this venture underscores Belle’s significant role in the growth and diversification of the Philippine gaming industry.
7. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR)
Flagship Properties: Various Casino Filipino Branches
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is a government-owned and controlled corporation responsible for regulating and operating casinos in the Philippines. Established in 1976, PAGCOR plays a dual role as both regulator and operator, making it a unique entity in the gaming industry.
PAGCOR operates several Casino Filipino branches across the country, including locations in Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Bacolod. These casinos offer a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. While not as luxurious as some of the private integrated resorts, Casino Filipino branches provide accessible gaming experiences to a broader audience.
PAGCOR’s contributions to the Philippine economy extend beyond gaming revenues. As a government entity, PAGCOR uses a significant portion of its earnings to fund various social and infrastructure projects, supporting national development. Its regulatory role also ensures that the industry operates within a legal and ethical framework.
Future Prospects of the Philippine Casino Gaming Industry
The Philippine casino gaming industry has experienced remarkable growth, driven by the efforts of these major companies. From luxurious integrated resorts to government-operated casinos, the diversity of offerings ensures that there is something for every type of gaming enthusiast.
These companies have not only enhanced the country’s tourism appeal but also created numerous jobs and contributed significantly to the economy. As the industry continues to evolve, the Philippines is well-positioned to remain a key player in the global casino gaming market.
Hristo (Christo to his friends) is a seasoned iGaming professional with 18 years experience building iGaming & Fintech products – Casino, Sportbook, Poker, Bingo, Social gaming and Fintech products gathered throughout his career in PokerStars, Winner.com, Playtech, Reflex Gaming. Strong knowledge and expertise in Marketing, Operations, Strategy building and business relationship management.