DigiPlus Interactive Corp., a prominent name in the Philippines’ gaming and leisure industry, has officially refuted recent reports suggesting it is on the brink of acquiring CasinoPlus. In a statement submitted to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Monday, the company clarified that while acquisitions align with its long-term strategic growth, “there are no definitive plans at this time” to pursue a deal with CasinoPlus.

DigiPlus addresses speculation on CasinoPlus acquisition:

The clarification comes after a report by Bilyonaryo.com claimed that DigiPlus was gearing up for a potential acquisition of CasinoPlus, an online gaming operator regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR). The report also speculated that, if completed, the transaction could generate a combined monthly revenue of PHP10 billion (approximately USD 170.4 million).

CasinoPlus operates the Hotel Stotsenberg and Casino in Clark, an integrated resort currently under renovation in Pampanga, located about two hours north of Manila. The resort holds a gaming license from PAGCOR, allowing it to offer online gambling under the Philippines’ updated regulatory framework. Notably, these online gaming operations must be linked to physical gaming equipment or tables at brick-and-mortar establishments, a feature that sets them apart from conventional server-based online gaming platforms.

DigiPlus’ statement appears to be a response to mounting public interest and speculation fueled by the Bilyonaryo.com report, which highlighted that discussions between DigiPlus and CasinoPlus had reportedly been “smooth,” given the shared investors in the two companies.

Acquisitions in the broader strategy:

While dismissing immediate plans to acquire CasinoPlus, DigiPlus reiterated that acquisitions remain an integral part of its strategic roadmap. The company said in its official statement, “Acquisitions have always been in the company’s plan as part of its strategic expansion. However, there are no definitive plans at this time.”

According to GGRAsia, DigiPlus, formerly operating as Leisure & Resorts World Corp., has undergone significant transformations in recent years. Once tied to proposals for a casino resort project on the popular tourist destination of Boracay Island until October 2023, the company has since repositioned itself as a holding firm with diversified investments across gaming and leisure markets.

Among its various interests, DigiPlus has established a presence in digital gaming solutions, offering products like digital bingo and a sportsbook platform. The firm’s continued focus on innovation underscores its commitment to remaining competitive in the dynamic Philippine gaming sector.

The regulatory landscape for gaming operators in the Philippines has evolved in recent years, providing opportunities for licensed land-based casino operators to expand into online gaming. Under current regulations, only registered members within the Philippines can access these online offerings, and the games must directly connect to physical gaming machines or tables within a licensed establishment.

This framework aims to maintain a direct link between traditional casino operations and digital platforms, ensuring compliance with PAGCOR standards and distinguishing such services from conventional online gaming formats that rely entirely on virtual servers. CasinoPlus has leveraged this opportunity through its PAGCOR license, setting the stage for its ongoing development at the Hotel Stotsenberg and Casino.

DigiPlus’ recent financial performance reflects its growing influence in the gaming and leisure sector. According to its third-quarter earnings report released on November 11, 2024, the company recorded a net income of PHP8.75 billion (approximately USD 149 million) for the first nine months of the year. This figure represents a staggering 314% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Revenue figures also highlighted DigiPlus’ success, with the company achieving PHP51.56 billion in revenues—a 223% increase year-on-year. Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) similarly saw significant growth, rising 271% from PHP2.52 billion in 2023 to PHP9.34 billion in 2024.

The company’s success is further bolstered by its majority ownership of First Cagayan Leisure and Resort Corp., holding an 87.27% stake. First Cagayan plays a pivotal role in licensing and regulating interactive gaming businesses under the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), a body that has been issuing interactive gaming licenses since 2001.