Universal Entertainment Corporation, based in Tokyo, is gearing up to significantly expand its casino resort ventures in the Philippines.
Earlier this month, it came to light that Tiger Resort Leisure & Entertainment Inc. (TRLEI), the Philippine arm of the Japanese gaming and entertainment giant, has inked a “preliminary agreement” that would grant it a majority stake in the Emerald Bay Resort in Cebu.
Although still under construction, the Emerald Bay project has already secured a provisional gambling license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Its objective is to emerge as a “distinguished and opulent five-star integrated resort in Cebu, serving as the top-notch entertainment hub in the Philippines beyond Entertainment City in Metro Manila.”
Upon completion, Emerald Bay will feature a deluxe hotel alongside the beachfront, comprising two fifteen-story towers offering over six hundred rooms and four swimming pools. Additionally, it will boast an array of dining options, retail spaces, and conference and exhibition facilities. The casino component is slated to house more than seven hundred electric gaming machines and over 140 gaming tables.
Universal Entertainment operates solely one casino resort, Okada Manila, in the Entertainment City gambling region.
When Will The Emerald Bay Casino Open Its Doors?
The “definitive agreement” permitting the Japanese firm to assume control of Emerald Bay is expected to be finalized next July. The casino resort could potentially commence construction and open to the public sometime in FY 2027. The acquisition price remains undetermined.
Universal Entertainment’s opportunity to acquire Emerald Bay arose from the recent financial woes of the project’s initiator, tycoon Dennis Uy. Following a rapid ascent across various sectors, Uy found himself burdened with excessive debt as profits from several of his significant ventures began trickling in slower than anticipated.
Are Real Money Online Casino Games Legal In The Philippines?
Yes, there are no laws making online casino gaming illegal in the Philippines. However, residents are suggested to only play at the most trusted PH online casinos licensed by notable gaming regulators.
Since brick-and-mortar casinos located inside the country are not allowed to offer online casino games to residents, players who seek real-money online casino games often find themselves in a bit of a problem.
To assist our readers, we have created legitimate casino reviews for each of our top-rated online casinos. Our reviews discuss banking options, bonus rewards, rewards programs, game selection, user interface, customer service, and more.
You won’t find it online if you are looking for the big casino and feel of what is expected from Emerald Bay. However, online casinos offer more regarding gameplay and bonus options, not to mention accessibility.