Widus Philippines Inc., which owns and operates the Widus Hotel and Casino in the Philippines, has become the first casino in the Clark Freeport Zone to be granted its “regular” gaming license from the country’s state-run gaming regulator, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).
Neki Liwanag, Widus Philippines’ assistant vice president for corporate planning and compliance, told GGRAsia the development was “a first in Clark.” The license was approved at PAGCOR’s July 8 board meeting, she added.
“Being able to get the regular gaming license a few months ahead of the required timeline and supported by more than the required investment shows Widus’ commitment to the industry and its belief on the success of the gaming industry in Clark, and in the Philippines,” said Liwanag.
“This is also the reason why Widus is already expanding with the construction of its fourth hotel tower, the expansion of the existing casino, and other related facilities.”
Widus said the full license was issued after the company exceeded the minimum investment threshold under its agreement with PAGCOR—PHP4.5 billion (US$86.6 million), which was required within four years from the signing of its provisional license in December 2014.
“As verified by our external auditors, we have invested a total of PHP10.176 billion (US$195.3 million) as of October 31, 2018,” said Liwanag.
The company continues to expand, with a fourth hotel in the works. The 19-story, 380-room tower will also add new restaurants, shops, and a casino with 200 gaming tables and 1,000 slot machines and electronic table games. The current Widus Casino has 67 tables, 358 slot machines, and 28 ETGs.
Liwanag said the company hopes to open the new casino “by the last quarter of 2020.”
Widus President and CEO Daesik Han said the license is “a solidified acknowledgement of the government’s trust and confidence for the company’s competency and compliance,” according to the Manila Standard.
“We take pride in bringing world-class hospitality and entertainment in the area alongside adding value to the community. These investment projects aim to create more job opportunities for the locals while further boosting the business and tourism market here,” he said.
