Fontana Leisure Park and Casino, a well-known establishment in the Clark Freeport Zone in the Philippines, was recently forced to shut down. The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) implemented this action due to significant legal and regulatory issues.
The closure marks a pivotal moment in the region’s gaming and leisure industry, raising questions about compliance, accountability, and the future of similar establishments.
Fontana Leisure Park and Casino
Fontana Leisure Park and Casino has long been a staple in the Clark Freeport Zone, offering world-class amenities such as:
- Luxury accommodations: High-end villas and hotel rooms catering to local and international tourists. You can even stay at the Rose Garden Mansion for a more exclusive experience for the whole family.
- Gaming facilities: A state-of-the-art casino featuring slot machines, table games, and VIP rooms.
- Recreational amenities: A water park, golf course, and numerous wellness centers.
This integrated leisure facility has contributed significantly to the local economy, providing jobs and attracting many foreign tourists.
Reasons For the Shutdown
The CDC’s decision to shut down Fontana Leisure Park and Casino stemmed from various regulatory and legal issues, including:
- Non-compliance with operational permits: The management failed to secure updated licenses required by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and other governing bodies.
- Illegal activities: Allegations of unauthorized online gambling operations conducted within the premises.
- Tax and revenue discrepancies: Failure to report accurate financial data, resulting in potential revenue losses for the government.
These violations prompted immediate action from regulatory authorities to protect the public interest and maintain the integrity of the gaming sector. Fontana was given several chances to correct its wrongs before it was shut down, but the resort failed to fulfill contractual and financial obligations.
The recent closure of the property leaves 346 resort employees and 229 casino employees without a job.
Is the Clark Freeport Zone in the Philippines
The Clark Freeport Zone, located in the Philippines, is a special economic zone established within the former United States Air Force base in the Pampanga and Tarlac provinces.
It is managed by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and offers investors a range of incentives, including tax exemptions, duty-free importation of equipment, and streamlined regulatory processes.
Clark is strategically positioned with an international airport (Clark International Airport) and is known for its modern infrastructure and growing reputation as a destination for commerce and leisure activities.
Are Online Casinos Legal In The Clark Freeport Zone?
Yes, legal online casinos are available in the Clark Freeport Zone. With numerous casinos in the area, residents can access in-person and trusted online casino games from their home computer or mobile device.