Philippines' Camarines Sur province may witness a significant turning point in the gambling industry. According to multiple sources, former Congressman Mike Defensor is collaborating with Hong Kong-listed Century Entertainment International to advance a major gambling joint venture project. It is reported that the company has obtained a gambling operation license from PAGCOR and is planning to establish an operational base in Camarines Sur.
Although the official details of the project have not yet been publicly announced, industry insiders generally believe that this move may signify a new round of revival and restructuring in Camarines Sur's gambling industry, and it may even challenge Pasay and Makati to become the new center of the Philippines' gambling industry.
This collaboration is seen as a key signal of the "gambling resurgence" after the industry's regulatory storm in 2023. Amidst a backdrop of mass business withdrawals and stricter license reviews, Camarines Sur has gradually attracted the attention of small and medium-sized gambling investors due to its relatively low land prices, moderate geographical location, and relatively stable security environment. If the project successfully lands, it may further stimulate more capital inflow.
However, some observers remain cautious, worrying whether the gambling craze might once again trigger regulatory pressures, especially in areas such as foreign labor visa issuance, security management, and legal and compliant operations. Whether gambling can become a new engine for economic recovery or a repetition of old problems still requires time for observation and policy response.
