Galaxy Entertainment Group Chairman Lui Che Woo says he is still confident that the company will proceed with construction of a US$500 million integrated resort on the Philippine resort island of Boracay, despite the nation’s President insisting otherwise.
In an interview with CNBC this week, Lui outlined Galaxy’s plans for the IR – a joint venture with Philippines firm Leisure and Resorts World Corp – stating that gaming would only comprise a small component of the facility and insisting it would help improve the island’s global appeal.
“We are very confident,” Lui said. “From the beginning until now, our plans have not changed. Unless the government has other plans, we will follow their decision.”
The Galaxy boss added that his company planned to help restore Boracay to its natural beauty after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered Boracay closed to tourists for six months due to pollution concerns.
“When Galaxy negotiated with the Philippines government, our plans were to turn Boracay into an internationally acclaimed island,” he explained. “First, it will be low-density and second, we want to restore the beautiful natural scenery to how it was before.
“Our plans are for a low-density environment, like in the Maldives, instead of a big casino floor like in Manila or other places that are dense or busy. We want to lure high-end customers to come and enjoy and to help the Philippines lift its status. It is no longer the top-tier natural scenic place it once was due to pollution and sub-standard facilities.
“Gaming will actually be a small portion, we expect a few dozen tables, as this is not our focus for Boracay. We hope it’ll become a truly good tourism spot and return it to the beautiful island it once was. This is very different to what is being said out there.
“We don’t pay attention to unofficial commentary. As you know, the environment in the Philippines has changed over the years. When we first indicated our interest to invest, many people misunderstood and misinterpreted us, we don’t care about this.
“We’re waiting for the final decision from the government as to how it wants to develop Boracay. We will follow their directive to achieve their goal.”
Duterte has made a number of comments in recent months reiterating his opposition to casino gaming and insisting he would allow no new casinos to be built anywhere in the Philippines.
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