The Philippines attract millions of tourists yearly due to its stunning nature, historical heritage, and entertainment opportunities. This country is a great getaway for casino game lovers who seek a Vegas-like atmosphere. The Philippines have become a hot gambling hub, thanks to a regulated industry that flourished since the mid-’70s.
It can also stand shoulder-to-shoulder next to the more famous gambling destinations in Asia, like Macau or Singapore. Manila, as this country’s capital, is the center of gambling activities in the Philippines, but it is not the only place where you can enjoy spinning the wheels.
A couple of other cities can provide a memorable gambling experience, and Cebu is the one that is projected as the next PH gambling destination. In this article, we reveal why you should visit Cebu.
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Why Is Cebu the Next Gambling Prospect?
Manila is the flagship of the Philippines’ gambling industry, as it serves four resorts that cost $1 billion each. They are all located in Entertainment City, a specially designed part of Manila for casino lovers. On the other hand, if you visit Manila but prefer online gambling, you should search for legal gambling sites in the Philippines favored by Filipinos and enjoy a memorable experience.
Since the gambling industry will likely continue its development in the Philippines, adding another grandiose resort in Manila would just increase the crowd and not improve the overall experience. Therefore, Cebu emerges as an excellent option to continue the casino-tourism expansion. Cebu represents the oldest settlement in this Southeast Asian country.
It is also known as the Queen City of the South, and Cebu is the second-largest city in the PH. Due to its convenience for local and foreign areas, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has eyed Cebu as the next famous gambling destination in the Philippines.
Photo Credit: Zany Jadraque – Unsplash
What Can You Expect from Cebu?
Cebu City is the capital of the Cebu Province, and it is a city that offers a huge historical heritage. According to the Philippines’ Department of Tourism, Cebu is the second-most visited city in this country. It accounted for 20% of more than 15 million arrivals in 2019, and it is not surprising that PAGCOR has picked it as the next gambling hub.
Of course, gambling won’t be the only attraction in Cebu. This city has to offer numerous heritage places and beautiful churches, like Basilica del Santo Nino and the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. The historically-inspired stories and locations can only enrich your traveling experience, while gambling will add an extra level of entertainment. On the other hand, those who consider gambling as their primary travel activity won’t be restricted only to Manila to get an excellent gaming experience.
PAGCOR plans to roll out a couple of casino resorts on top of what Cebu can currently offer. It might take a couple of years to complete those projects, but Entertainment City’s success can only serve as a positive example for investors, players, and authorities. If you plan to have some gambling action in Cebu soon, let’s see the best options you currently may have.
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Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino
Nobody should miss visiting Cebu’s landmark, the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino. We have more than enough valid reasons to recommend you visit this casino resort. It is located in the Queen City of the South’s center, and it’s a perfect starting point for sightseeing. Also, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino is just 30 minutes away from Mactan International Airport, so you won’t spend much time in traffic.
Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino will meet your expectations if you are looking for exciting casino action. You can try out your luck at more than 400 slot machines, while more than 60 tables are also at your disposal. If you are not a high-roller, don’t worry, you will have more than enough low-stakes games to keep you busy and entertained. Besides slot machines, blackjack and roulette variants attract many players, while you can also explore other table games like baccarat.
Besides having fun in the casino, you can also enjoy other activities like visiting bars and restaurants or relaxing in the pool. Eventually, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino’s spacious rooms will provide you with everything you need for a memorable stay.
The proposed plan of Emerald resort and Casino.
Emerald Resort and Casino
Mactan Island in Lapu-Lapu City hosts Emerald Resort and Casino in a 13.5-hectares area. This is a freshly-opened venue since the pandemic delayed its kick-off for 2022. Nevertheless, Emerald Resort and Casino will go full capacity in 2023 since it is still in the soft-launch phase. Of course, its visitors can enjoy casino games in a 7.500 square-meter area. It facilitates over 1.000 slot machines and more than a hundred table games.
Besides enjoying a memorable gaming experience, this venue offers a luxury stay as well. More than 800 rooms are at your disposal, while restaurants offer different types of cuisines. A partial beachfront is there for a stunning view while shopping fans can enjoy this activity in an 8.000 m2 area.
Conclusion
The Philippines are a well-known gambling hub, and this industry brings a high portion of income to the country. After positive experiences establishing Entertainment City, authorities have decided to boost the gambling sector and introduce new locations.
Cebu has the biggest potential besides Manila to become the next PH gambling hub. We will monitor the situation and see whether these plans will come true, but they are on the right track.
