Philippines Casino Travel Guide

The Philippines has rapidly developed into one of Asia”s major casino destinations. The Entertainment City development in Manila and additional resorts in Cebu, Cagayan, and other locations have created substantial integrated resort capacity. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) regulates the industry.

Entertainment City Manila

The 100-hectare gaming and entertainment complex in Manila Bay area includes:

• City of Dreams Manila (Melco Resorts): premium integrated resort with strong dining and entertainment.
• Solaire Resort Manila (Bloomberry Resorts): the first Entertainment City resort, premium positioning.
• Okada Manila (Universal Entertainment): the largest property by floor space, distinctive Japanese design influence.
• Newport World Resorts (formerly Resorts World Manila): the original major Manila integrated resort.

Solaire Resort Manila

The first Entertainment City property, opened 2013. Distinguished by The Theatre at Solaire (one of Asia”s premier performing arts venues hosting major Broadway productions and concerts). The casino, hotel, and dining are all premium positioned.

City of Dreams Manila

Operated by Melco Resorts (the same group that operates major Macau properties). Known for its Crown Towers Manila luxury hotel, multiple celebrity-chef restaurants, and family-friendly DreamPlay attraction. Strong casino floor with both Asian and Western table games.

Other Philippines destinations

Cebu has multiple casino properties including the new NUSTAR Resort and Casino. Subic Bay and Clark (former US military base areas) have major casino-resort developments. Cagayan Special Economic Zone has additional casino properties. Boracay does not have casinos despite being a major tourist destination.

Online gambling

The Philippines has historically licensed offshore online gambling operators (POGOs) that serve Chinese and other Asian markets. The POGO industry has been controversial and progressively restricted; the long-term future of the offshore licensing regime is uncertain.

Practical considerations

Minimum age: 21. Photo ID required (passport for foreign visitors). Smart casual minimum dress code. Cash transactions tracked. Most casinos accept Philippine pesos and US dollars; many also accept Chinese yuan.

Getting there

Manila is the primary entry point. Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) connects to most Asian capitals and many global destinations. From the airport: 30-45 minutes to most Entertainment City resorts depending on traffic. Cebu is the secondary major casino destination.

What sets the Philippines apart

English language proficiency is high (especially in resort areas), making it easier for Western visitors than some other Asian casino destinations. Pricing is generally lower than Macau or Singapore. The combination of casino tourism with broader Philippine beach destinations (Boracay, Palawan, Cebu) offers extended trip options.