Operators bolster responsible gaming and geo-compliance as digital casino platforms surge
The Philippines’ three leading integrated resort (IR) operators—Solaire Resort, Newport World Resorts, and Okada Manila—reaffirmed their strict compliance with Philippine gaming laws and responsible gaming practices. The announcement comes as these major players continue to scale up their digital gaming platforms, positioning them as extensions of their brick-and-mortar operations.
Online Expansion, Offline Responsibility
With online gaming revenue now contributing nearly 50% of total casino income in the Philippines, according to Alliance Global (Newport’s parent company), the statement seeks to reassure regulators and the public that expansion into digital territory remains within the bounds of PAGCOR regulations.
The operators emphasized that their online platforms are not standalone casinos, but regulated extensions of their physical venues, operated under the close supervision of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
Built-In Safeguards: From AML to Geo-Fencing
The joint declaration highlights a suite of operational safeguards already implemented:
Geo-blocking and IP filtering: Ensures access is restricted to users within Philippine territory, preventing unlicensed cross-border participation.
Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols: Identity verification is completed within 72 hours of registration to prevent underage gambling and identity fraud.
Anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks: Enforced in alignment with national financial security mandates.
Self-exclusion and deposit limits: Available to help players manage their gambling behavior proactively.
Additionally, all games and promotional materials undergo prior vetting by PAGCOR and the Advertising Standards Council, ensuring responsible marketing.
Institutional Oversight and Staff Accountability
Beyond user protections, the statement confirmed that internal compliance structures are in place, including:
Annual compliance audits
Licensing for all gaming employees
Mandatory regulatory training
This approach reinforces the IRs’ commitment to maintaining a transparent operational culture, in line with the evolving Philippine gaming ecosystem.
Social Responsibility Remains a Focus
The operators were also keen to remind the public of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. Collectively employing over 30,000 people and drawing over two million tourists annually, the resorts support initiatives in education, healthcare, and disaster relief, integrating public service into their business models.
Context: Market Shifting Toward Digital
This declaration follows Newport World Resorts’ May 2025 confirmation of a major digital infrastructure overhaul, aimed at integrating existing online services—not launching a separate app, as had been speculated.
As PAGCOR increasingly embraces a digital-forward regulatory stance, IR operators appear poised to meet the moment. Their joint statement not only reaffirms compliance but positions them as leaders in responsible digital gambling, at a time when regional competitors—such as in Macau and Singapore—are also expanding online strategies.
Conclusion
With online gaming revenues soaring and regulatory pressure increasing, Solaire, Newport, and Okada Manila are strategically aligning technology, regulation, and social responsibility to future-proof their businesses. The message is clear: the Philippines’ IR leaders are ready to grow—but not at the expense of consumer protection, legal compliance, or ethical business conduct.
