Macau casino operator, local gaming firm to build 'integrated resort' on Boracay

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 20) — A Macau casino operator and a local gaming firm are set to build an "integrated resort" on Boracay island amidst the government plan to temporarily close the famous tourist destination.

This was confirmed by Leisure & Resorts World Corporation (LRWC) in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Monday.

LRWC said its subsidiary has acquired 23 hectares of land in Boracay's Barangay Manoc-Manoc, which is located opposite the white beach spot that is often visited by tourists.

It said Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is set to issue a provisional license to Macau casino operator Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) this month.

"Upon the issuance of the said license through the partnership between LRWC and GEG, an Integrated Resort will be constructed in the said property," LRWC said in its disclosure.

LRWC issued the disclosure in response to an interview with PAGCOR Chair Andrea Domingo by GMA News Online. In the article, Domingo said GEG and LRWC will push through with their plan to build a $500-million integrated casino-resort on Boracay Island in Aklan.

President Rodrigo Duterte in February threatened to shut down Boracay island due to the tourist destination's polluted waters.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Tuesday denied speculations Duterte is planning to close Boracay in favor of building the casino.

"I see no link between the casino and whatever decision the President will make," he said in a media briefing.

Environment and tourism officials on March 15 recommended the total closure of the island, but Duterte has yet to give an order.

"His decision will depend exclusively on what is best to protect the environment of Boracay," Roque said.