After solidifying its control over International Entertainment Corp. (IEC), Philippine online gaming firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is moving to build the digital gambling operations of IEC’s LaVie Resort & Casino Manila.
In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) on Wednesday, June 10, DigiPlus said its wholly owned subsidiary Total Gamezone Xtreme Inc. (TGXI) has signed a cooperation agreement with New Coast Leisure Inc. (NCLI) for LaVie, formerly New Coast Hotel Manila.
Under the agreement, TGXI and NCLI will collaborate on a non-exclusive basis in relation to the integration, aggregation, provision, technical support, and operation of approved online games and related gaming content through or in connection with LaVie’s online gaming platform and operations, subject to regulatory approval.
IEC disclosed in Hong Kong that it has commissioned a consultant to review the design of the internal control (IC) system based on TGXI’s IC framework, which the group plans to adopt for the online gaming operation under the agreement.
“Through the interview and walk-through testing on the key areas of know-your-client (KYC), gaming operation, anti-money laundering (AML) and customer support and dispute resolution and after an independent assessment on the suitability of design of the TGXI IC system, the IC consultant considered that no significant IC deficiencies were found,” it said.
According to an online article published by IMARC Group, the Philippine gaming industry is projected to experience substantial expansion through 2033, supported by technological convergence, favorable demographics, and the country’s strategic position in the global gaming landscape.
The market is forecast to reach $9.87 billion by 2033, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.29 percent from 2025 to 2033.
Recent policy developments have further strengthened the regulatory and commercial environment for online gaming in the Philippines. In early 2025, state-run regulator Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) implemented significant reforms, including a reduction in licensing fees to 30 percent for land-based operators and 25 percent for integrated resorts (IRs), from 55 percent previously, as well as the introduction of new accreditation rules for third-party vendors to enhance industry integrity and promote regulated digital expansion.
Pagcor also launched iGames, an online platform offering both traditional casino games and new virtual formats. As a result, major casino operators in the Philippines have begun integrating augmented reality (AR) gaming, which overlays digital elements onto slot machines, and virtual reality (VR) gaming, which offers fully immersive environments.
IEC said its board members “are of the view that the online gaming sector in the Philippines is undergoing rapid expansion, supported by favorable government policies, technological advancement, and increasing market demand. Participation in this sector is expected to broaden the group’s revenue base, improve operational scalability, and create new growth drivers.” – James A. Loyola
