The first Philippines integrated resort to be built outside Luzon has officially broken ground, Pagcor announced on Tuesday.
The US$341 million Emerald Resort and Casino in Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan Island is being built by Udenna Development Corporation (UDC) and will cover 12.5 hectares of prime beachfront property once complete in 2020.
It is also the first integrated resort approved by the current Pagcor board.
“We hope that in two or three years’ time we will be here again to witness the opening of this project,” said Pagcor chair Andrea Domingo at the groundbreaking ceremony.
“We hope that this will be a precedent for all integrated resorts that will be built outside of Entertainment City in Manila because in Cebu City, there will be a world-class resort casino that is worth taking a look.”
The Emerald Resort and Casino was designed by renowned American designer and architect Paul Steelman, whose works include Galaxy Macau and Solaire Resort & Casino in Manila.
“This resort-casino can be a lot different from everyone else,” Mr Steelman said.
“It will have grand suites, five-story aquariums, retail malls that will rival the best in Asia, among others. It will have gaming areas but we designed it to be family-friendly. The palatial aspect of this building will certainly attract more tourists. Besides, this site is one of the most beautiful in the world.”
UDC Chairman and CEO Dennis Uy added that “the project will play a vital role in transforming Mactan into a premiere tourist destination with a vibrant and thriving economy.”
“Today is not only about The Emerald, it is about all of us,” he said. “We break ground for thousands of jobs that will provide countless opportunities and a brighter future for local businesses and entrepreneurs. It is also about showing the best of what Filipino talent and hospitality has to offer.”
