Manila's Entertainment City — The Philippines' Vegas Bet
Manila's Entertainment City is the Philippines' Cotai-style mega-casino zone. Four integrated resorts in one bayside district, plus Newport across town.
The Philippines opened Entertainment City on Manila Bay — a 100-hectare integrated-resort zone — over the 2010s. Four mega-properties anchor it: Solaire Resort (Bloomberry), City of Dreams Manila (Melco / Belle), Okada Manila (Universal Entertainment), and Westside City (under development). Plus Newport World Resorts across town near NAIA. Tables PHP 500–2,000 (US$10–35) mass-floor; baccarat dominant.
The Philippines has the most permissive casino licensing regime in Southeast Asia. PAGCOR (the state regulator) operates its own properties AND licenses private operators.
Solaire Resort & Casino
Bloomberry Resorts' flagship; opened 2013, with Solaire North added in 2024 (Quezon City). The Manila Bay original is still the destination. Two hotel towers, well-regarded restaurants, decent showroom. Mass floor PHP 500–1,000 minimums.
City of Dreams Manila
Melco-Belle JV. Opened 2015. Three hotel brands: Hyatt Regency, Nüwa, Nobu Hotel Manila. Strong dining (Nobu, Crystal Dragon, Café Society).
Okada Manila
The most opulent of the four — and most controversial. Universal Entertainment built it; founder Kazuo Okada was famously ousted from his own company. The Crystal Dome lobby is genuinely spectacular. Hotel rooms among the most luxurious in Manila.
Newport World Resorts
Across town near NAIA, in the Newport City development. Travelodge, Hilton Manila, Marriott Manila are the main hotels. Better for transit travelers; worse for Manila Bay sunset views.
What to know before you go
Combine with Boracay or Palawan for a 7–10 day trip.
Topics
- philippines
- asia