Belle Explores Expansion Of Clark Casino Resort With Multiple Operators

Belle Corp is currently in active talks with several operators regarding an integrated casino resort in Clark, as the company seeks expansion beyond its existing Manila operations. In a filing submitted to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Belle stated that negotiations are progressing after a provisional licence was issued for the project within the Clark Special Economic Zone.

The development will require an investment of at least $300 million, representing an integral step in Belle’s strategy within the Philippine gaming and tourism market. The provisional licence was granted by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) through Belle’s subsidiary, Premium Leisure Corp, to its operating units, Sinophil Leisure and Resorts Corp and Foundation Capital Resources Inc.

With this approval, the group can proceed with plans for a new casino resort. However, the final project structure depends on securing an operating partner.

Discussions continue with multiple international operators

From recent reports, Belle already held talks with three to four international casino operators, including its long-time partner at City of Dreams Manila, Melco Resorts & Entertainment. While the company did not officially identify the operators involved, it confirmed that negotiations are on course and further information will be disclosed once agreements are finalised.

Clark has increasingly become a major target for tourism and entertainment investment in the Philippines. Located roughly two hours north of Manila, the area has benefited from improving infrastructure and growing interest in MICE tourism involving meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

Belle said it sees Clark as both an emerging tourism destination and a future gaming hub. The company is also seeking regulatory approval for itself and Premium Leisure to act as co-licensees on the project, but this request is still under review.

Co-licensing structure expected for the development

Belle chief executive Armin Antonio Raquel-Santos, commenting on the developments, expects the resort to operate with a co-licensing structure. Therefore, the selected operator would manage casino operations while Belle retains land ownership, leases the property and shares in the gaming revenues from the resort.

The company indicated that the final design and scale of the project will largely depend on the operator eventually selected. A revised development proposal will be submitted once negotiations are completed, incorporating the partner’s operational and technical requirements. Current timelines suggest the resort could launch within two to three years after formally appointing an operator.

Manila operations continue to support Belle’s growth

Belle’s expansion plans come while the company benefits from its existing gaming interests in the region. In Q1 2026, Belle’s share of gaming revenue from City of Dreams Manila increased 12.3% to PHP485.7 million ($8 million) from the previous year.

The company’s Clark ambitions show its confidence in the Philippine gaming sector’s potential, particularly outside Metro Manila. However, the proposed project is in its early stages and the outcome will largely depend on partner selection and execution plans.

Belle Corp has announced its intention to develop an integrated resort in the Clark region. The company is presently in talks with numerous operators to identify the best fit for its development plans. Belle has secured a PACGOR license for the project and the project will be set in motion once these initial stages are concluded.