The Philippines and Bangladesh delivered two sharply contrasting developments for Asia’s gaming industry on June 19. While major Philippine integrated resorts strengthened their commitment to community investment and mass-market growth, Bangladesh formally launched its most significant anti-gambling reform since the colonial era.
In the Philippines, City of Dreams Manila, through the Melco Resorts (Philippines) Foundation Corporation (MRP Foundation), completed the rehabilitation of Sunshine Park in Baguio City, a project valued at PHP20 million (US$330,000). Construction began in March 2025 and was carried out in partnership with the local government of Baguio.
The upgraded park features improved walkways, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic areas, enhanced landscaping and the public art installation “Language of Photography” by Baguio-based artist Clinton Aniversario. The initiative was supported by Clarence Chung, Chairman of Melco Resorts and Entertainment (Philippines) Corporation and President of MRP Foundation, who said the project reflects the company’s commitment to creating long-term social value beyond gaming operations.
Kevin Tan
Kevin Tan, Chairman of Travellers International Hotel Group and President and CEO of Alliance Global Group, confirmed that Newport World Resorts in Manila will increasingly focus on the mass-market segment, online gaming, hospitality, entertainment and non-gaming attractions, while carefully managing its VIP gaming business.
The strategy comes as the Philippine gaming market continues to evolve and coincides with the development of new projects such as Narra Palm Resort and Villas and Westside Resort in Entertainment City, which is expected to open during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Tarique Rahman
While the Philippines continues using integrated resorts as drivers of tourism and investment, Bangladesh moved in the opposite direction. On 18 June 2026, the cabinet led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman granted preliminary approval to the Gambling Prevention Act, 2026, a bill introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, headed by Interior Minister Salahuddin Ahmed.
- Bangladesh moves to replace colonial gambling law
The legislation will replace the Public Gambling Act of 1867, ending a 159-year-old legal framework. The bill introduces legal definitions for online gambling, digital betting platforms, electronic wallets, bookmakers, match-fixing and spot-fixing. It also expands criminal liability to individuals and entities that promote, facilitate or provide technological support for illegal gambling operations.
Following cabinet approval, the bill will move through legislative review before being submitted to Parliament for final passage.
While the Philippines continues strengthening gaming-led tourism, entertainment and economic development, Bangladesh is building one of Asia’s most restrictive legal frameworks to combat online gambling and cross-border betting activity.
