Tiger Resorts initiates strategic expansion plan after managing Okada Manila

Lea Hogg December 29, 2023

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Tiger Resorts initiates strategic expansion plan after managing Okada Manila

In a bold strategic move, Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc., the operator of Okada Manila, has embarked on an expansion journey, signalling a significant development after seven successful years of managing the integrated resort and casino in Entertainment City.

Venturing into Mactan with Emerald Bay Resort Acquisition

The first sign of Tiger Resort’s expansion is its recent collaboration with Dennis Uy’s PH Travel and Leisure Holdings Corp. This partnership aims to secure a majority stake in the operating entities of the Mactan project, (above in photo), laying the foundation for the acquisition of the partially-developed Emerald Bay Resort. Kenji Sugiyama, Chief Managing Director of Okada Manila, expressed enthusiasm about this strategic move, noting that the Emerald Bay project aligns seamlessly with the company’s vision for the next phase of expansion.

Sugiyama said the company’s long-standing search for opportunities to augment their portfolio, stating, “We’ve been operating this property [Okada Manila] since 2016. So we’ve been looking for another opportunity to expand our project. So that project [Emerald Bay] could be fitting into our next step [of expansion].” However, he remained cautious about revealing specific timelines, citing his indirect involvement in the due diligence process.

Tiger Resort’s vision

Byron Yip, President and COO of Tiger Resort, (above in photo), expressed excitement about the venture into Mactan, emphasizing the company’s commitment to elevating their footprint in the Philippines. He stated, “This new venture is aligned with our strategy to increase our footprint in the Philippines, given our remarkable success with Okada Manila. We are excited to bring our signature level of hospitality and service excellence to a new and discerning market.”

The ambitious resort project on Mactan Island is designed to be an integrated paradise, featuring a five-star hotel with 300 meters of beachfront, two 15-storey towers housing 642 rooms, four pools, 18 food and beverage outlets, retail spaces, conference and exhibition facilities, and a large-scale gaming floor boasting more than 700 electronic gaming machines and over 140 tables.

Path to takeover

While the plans for Tiger Resort’s expansion are gaining momentum, both parties involved—Tiger Resort and PH Resorts—have acknowledged that certain conditions must be met. These include the execution of a definitive agreement and approval from relevant governmental authorities, among other considerations. The cautious approach underscores the importance of navigating the regulatory landscape and ensuring a seamless transition into the next chapter of Tiger Resort’s growth story.

In conclusion, Tiger Resort’s strategic move into Mactan represents a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. With the acquisition of the Emerald Bay Resort on the horizon, the operator is poised to transform Mactan Island into a haven of luxury and entertainment, reflecting its continued commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality and service excellence in the Philippines.

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