Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte made a bold move against Chinese-centric casinos in the country, ordering the shutdown of all establishments with ties to China. The decision came after growing concerns about the influx of Chinese nationals involved in illegal activities and the country’s growing reliance on Chinese investments.
Among the most prominent casinos affected by the order is the Marcos Casino, a lavish gambling destination located in the heart of Manila. The casino, which was named after former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos, has been a major player in the country’s gambling industry since its opening in 2018. However, its close ties to Chinese investors and its focus on catering to Chinese tourists have raised eyebrows in recent months.
President Duterte, known for his controversial and often unpredictable decisions, has been vocal about his concerns regarding the influence of China in the Philippines. In a recent speech, he criticized the presence of Chinese-run businesses, including casinos, in the country, accusing them of undermining Philippine sovereignty and contributing to rising crime rates.
The decision to shut down the Marcos Casino and other Chinese-centric establishments has been met with both praise and criticism. Supporters of the move argue that it is necessary to protect the interests of the Filipino people and curb the growing influence of China in the country. On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about potential job losses and the impact on the economy, as Chinese investments have played a significant role in driving growth in recent years.
In response to the order, the management of the Marcos Casino has issued a statement expressing their disappointment and pledging to comply with the government’s directive. The casino, which has become a popular destination for Chinese high-rollers, is now scrambling to find alternative sources of revenue and maintain its operations in the face of mounting pressure from the Duterte administration.
As the Philippines grapples with the fallout from the closure of Chinese-centric casinos, questions remain about the future of the country’s gambling industry and its relationship with China. With tensions between the two nations on the rise, Duterte’s decision to shut down these establishments is likely to have far-reaching implications for the Philippines’ economy and its diplomatic relations with its Asian neighbor. Only time will tell how this move will shape the future of the country’s gambling landscape and its ties with China.
