The Philippines is home to a thriving land-based casino industry that attracts both local and international players. With world-class resorts and entertainment hubs, the country has become one of Asia’s premier gambling destinations. Here’s an overview of land-based casinos in the Philippines, their development, and the unique experiences they offer.
History of Land-Based Casinos in the Philippines
The establishment of land-based casinos in the Philippines began in earnest during the late 1970s, following the creation of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) in 1977. PAGCOR was tasked with regulating and operating casinos throughout the country, helping to centralize the industry under government oversight. Initially, most casinos were modest operations, but over time, the industry grew to include luxury resorts and integrated entertainment hubs.
PAGCOR-Operated Casinos
PAGCOR itself operates several land-based casinos under the Casino Filipino brand. These casinos are located in major cities across the country, including Manila, Cebu, Angeles City, and Davao. Casino Filipino caters to both locals and tourists, offering a wide variety of games, from classic table games like blackjack, baccarat, and roulette to slot machines and electronic games. The revenue generated from these casinos is used to fund government projects related to infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Entertainment City: The Heart of Philippine Casino Resorts
The crown jewel of the Philippine land-based casino industry is Entertainment City, a 120-hectare area in Metro Manila developed as a world-class gaming and entertainment district. It’s home to some of the largest and most luxurious integrated casino resorts in the country. These resorts not only feature expansive gaming floors but also offer fine dining, entertainment shows, high-end shopping, and luxurious accommodations. The top resorts in this area include:
- Solaire Resort & Casino: Opened in 2013, Solaire was the first casino resort to open in Entertainment City. It offers an opulent gaming experience with a wide selection of table games and slot machines, in addition to luxury hotel rooms, award-winning restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- City of Dreams Manila: This integrated resort boasts a massive gaming floor with hundreds of slot machines and dozens of table games. Beyond gambling, City of Dreams offers a broad range of entertainment, including the family-friendly DreamPlay attraction and multiple high-end restaurants.
- Okada Manila: Known for its stunning architecture and lavish interior, Okada Manila is one of the largest casino resorts in the country. It features an expansive gaming area, complete with high-stakes VIP rooms, and is famous for its Fountain, one of the largest water features in the world.
- Resorts World Manila: Located near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Resorts World Manila offers a comprehensive gaming experience alongside entertainment shows, a mall, and a selection of luxury hotels. It is particularly popular among tourists due to its proximity to the airport.
Casino Gaming in Other Regions
While Metro Manila is the main hub for casinos, other regions of the Philippines also offer land-based gambling opportunities. Major cities like Cebu and Angeles City have several casinos that cater to both locals and tourists. Clark Freeport Zone, in particular, is home to several high-end casinos such as Midori Clark Hotel and Casino and Fontana Leisure Parks, which draw visitors from both the Philippines and abroad.
Popular Games in Land-Based Casinos
Filipino players enjoy a wide range of games in these land-based casinos, including:
- Baccarat: A favorite among high-rollers, baccarat tables are a staple in Philippine casinos.
- Blackjack: Known for its strategic appeal, blackjack remains popular with both new and experienced players.
- Roulette: A classic casino game, roulette offers fast-paced excitement and is widely available in Philippine casinos.
- Slot Machines: With hundreds of machines to choose from, slots are a major attraction, offering various themes, payouts, and jackpots.
- Poker: Many land-based casinos in the Philippines host poker rooms where players can enjoy both casual games and high-stakes tournaments.
Regulation and Responsible Gaming
All land-based casinos in the Philippines operate under strict regulation by PAGCOR to ensure fair play, security, and responsible gaming. The casinos are required to implement responsible gambling measures, including self-exclusion programs and educational campaigns to prevent gambling addiction. These measures are part of PAGCOR’s efforts to maintain a healthy balance between entertainment and player protection.
Economic Impact
The land-based casino industry plays a crucial role in the Philippine economy. It generates significant revenue through taxes and licensing fees, contributes to the growth of tourism, and provides thousands of jobs across various sectors, including hospitality, entertainment, and gaming operations. The government uses a portion of the revenue to fund public services, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
Conclusion
The land-based casino industry in the Philippines offers a rich blend of luxury, entertainment, and gambling excitement. From the opulent integrated resorts of Entertainment City to the more regional casinos spread across the country, Filipino players and tourists alike can enjoy world-class gaming experiences. With PAGCOR ensuring strict regulation and a commitment to responsible gaming, the future of land-based casinos in the Philippines looks bright, further solidifying the country as a top gaming destination in Asia.