Solaire Resort, Newport World Resort and Okada Manila – the Philippines’ three major integrated resort operators – have recently issued a joint statement pledging to operate with the highest standards of integrity and transparency while urging the government to carefully consider gaming reform policies to avoid exacerbating underground gambling due to excessive restrictions.
The joint statement, released on Sunday (13 July), is in response to the government’s plan to introduce special taxes on domestic online gambling and tighten regulatory policies in the wake of growing concerns about online gambling in the Philippines.
According to local media reports, the three operators emphasized that under the strict regulation of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), they will prioritize ethical business practices and promote responsible gambling. Their online gaming businesses are an extension of their operations and are regulated accordingly, primarily serving to supplement their core product offerings.
The operators stated that all employees hold valid gambling employment licenses issued by PAGCOR and participate in annual compliance training programs. They utilize geographic restriction technologies (such as IP filtering and geofencing) to prevent users from outside the Philippines from registering and betting, and strictly enforce PAGCOR regulations.
The operators also provide tools for self-exclusion, deposit limits, and account restrictions to help players manage their gambling behavior, and strictly prohibit minors from participating.
The three operators collectively manage four entertainment complex resorts, employing approximately 25,000 direct staff and around 5,000 indirect staff, hosting over 2 million visitors annually.
Currently, the 20th Congress of the Philippines has submitted several bills proposing a complete ban on electronic gambling or restrictions on public use of electronic wallets for betting to reduce potential social issues. Some local senators have even proposed a total ban on online gambling in the Philippines.
