Kevin Tan-led conglomerate to open new casino resort in Cebu; eyeing casino project on Boracay

The conglomerate Alliance Global Group (AGI), led by Kevin Tan, is planning to invest at least $300 million (P17 billion) in a new casino resort in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

AGI subsidiary Travellers International Hotel Group is set to expand its footprint outside Metro Manila with a new casino and leisure development in the Mactan Newtown project. This gaming hub is scheduled to open in three years’ time on Mactan Island near the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), the second-busiest gateway in the Philippines.

The ambitious project, named Mactan World Resorts, will mark the company’s first venture in the region and is expected to significantly impact the local economy.

The Lapu-Lapu City government recently approved the P17 billion ($300 million) investment proposal. On August 28, city officials issued a certificate of no objection, clearing the way for Travellers International to proceed with the development. This step is crucial for obtaining the necessary casino license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

“Since they will be integrating hotels in this project, we are looking at Mactan Newtown as the Newport World Resorts of Lapu-Lapu,” Lapu-Lapu City Councilor Annabeth Cuizon was quoted as saying in a report published by Insider PH.

Mactan World Resorts will feature a hotel, resort, and casino, and is projected to begin construction in early 2025, with completion anticipated by 2026. The project is expected to create around 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting local employment and economic activity. Mactan World Resorts is also anticipated to generate P243 million in real property and business taxes, significantly enhancing the city’s tax revenues.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan expressed enthusiasm about the development, highlighting its potential to elevate Mactan’s status as a premier tourist destination. He noted that the project would not only drive investment but also improve real estate values and fund community initiatives.

Travellers International, known for its Newport World Resorts in Metro Manila, is also exploring other opportunities. The company is considering a casino project on Boracay Island, as part of a broader 150-hectare resort and leisure hub being developed by its sister company, Megaworld Corp.

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