Philippines hospitality leader Travellers International Hotel Group Inc, under the helm of billionaire Andrew Tan, is set to invest PHP39.7 billion (US$700 million) in developing two new casino resorts in Mactan, Cebu, and Boracay Island, with construction slated to begin in 2026. This significant investment marks a strategic expansion for Travellers International, a subsidiary of the Alliance Global Group Inc (AGI), aiming to diversify its casino and tourism footprint outside the bustling Metro Manila.
“These will not be massive integrated resorts,” noted Nilo Thaddeus Rodriguez, Travellers President and CEO. Instead, the company is opting for a more tailored approach by creating boutique gaming centers that seamlessly integrate with the existing tourism estates managed by Megaworld Corporation, Andrew Tan’s renowned enterprise known for its “live-work-play” master-planned communities throughout the Philippines.
Mactan Newtown and Boracay Newcoast are prime examples of these communities, featuring a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational facilities, including hotels, office towers, condos, restaurants, retail spaces, convention halls, schools, museums, and golf courses. The new casino resorts will complement these developments, offering visitors a unique blend of gaming and lifestyle amenities.
Boracay World Resorts, planned for the iconic 10.3-square-kilometer Boracay Island, will incorporate a smaller-scale casino designed to blend with its picturesque surroundings. “We don’t want a big structure,” explained Kevin Tan, AGI President and CEO. “We want it to be just right, enhancing the island’s charm without overwhelming it.”
This strategy is particularly timely given the fluctuating trends in Philippine tourism. Although the Department of Tourism reported record-breaking revenue of approximately PHP760 billion in 2024, the sector has experienced some setbacks in 2025. A notable decline in arrivals from key markets has been observed, with Korean visitors decreasing by 18% and Chinese visitors by 34.4% from January through April. Contributing factors include rising crime rates against these nationalities and changes in visa policies, such as the suspension of e-visas for Chinese visitors. Additionally, the Chinese Embassy in Manila issued a warning about increasing crimes targeting Chinese nationals.
As the tourism landscape shifts, Travellers International’s boutique resort strategy may provide a competitive advantage. The company is keenly aware of the need to adapt to changing market conditions and has designed its new developments to cater to a diverse and evolving tourist demographic.
Context Philippines described Travellers’ expansion as a strategic move to solidify its presence beyond Metro Manila, where the Entertainment City casino zone dominates. The company is also nearing completion of the Westside City integrated resort in Parañaque, a large-scale development featuring multiple hotels, a casino with over 2,000 gaming machines and tables, a grand opera house, and numerous amenities. Set to open in the third quarter of 2026, Westside City is poised to become a major player in the Philippine gaming and entertainment scene.
Rodriguez emphasized that while iGaming has surpassed land-based revenue in the country, the role of physical casinos is evolving rather than diminishing. “Retail casinos are integral to anchoring tourism, delivering cultural and entertainment experiences, and providing the human connection that online gaming cannot replicate,” he remarked. The completion and operation of Westside City is a top priority, aiming to offer experiences reminiscent of iconic gaming destinations like Marina Bay Sands or Macau.
Travellers International’s dual approach — boutique resorts alongside large-scale integrated developments — reflects a nuanced understanding of the market. The company is positioning itself to meet the needs of both discerning local tourists and international visitors seeking diverse experiences within the Philippines’ rich cultural tapestry.
While some industry analysts express optimism about Travellers’ expansion strategy, others highlight potential challenges. The fluctuating tourist numbers and geopolitical tensions in the region could impact the expected influx of international visitors. Nevertheless, Travellers’ leadership remains confident in their vision, advocating that their investments will bolster the Philippines’ reputation as a premier destination for both leisure and gaming.
In conclusion, Travellers International’s upcoming projects in Mactan and Boracay, coupled with the anticipated opening of Westside City, signify a pivotal moment for the company. By focusing on unique and tailored experiences, Travellers aims to capture a significant share of the evolving tourism market while contributing to the Philippines’ broader economic and cultural landscape. As construction begins in 2026, all eyes will be on these developments to see how they redefine the future of gaming and tourism in the region.
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