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Philippines opens 14-day visa-free entry to Chinese visitors

Regulation

The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs announced a visa-free entry scheme for Chinese visitors, effective immediately, for tourism or business stays of up to 14 days. The programme runs through at least January 2027; the four Entertainment City casinos reported PHP37.43 billion in gross gaming revenue in Q3 2025, down almost 11% year on year, according to PAGCOR.

The policy expands visa-free access for Chinese visitors to Manila’s casino market through at least January 2027.

End-of-day close Melco Resorts & Entertainment (MLCO), USD, to 2 March 2026
Story date2 December 20252 March 2026

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Regulation

PAGCOR chairman backs regulatory split as Casino Filipino losses approach PHP7bn

PAGCOR chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco expects government approval for a proposal separating regulation from casino operations. The report puts Casino Filipino's expected 2026 losses at PHP7bn, equivalent to $111m.

According to a report, Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR's chairman and chief executive, is still confident the government will approve separating the regulator's regulatory activities from its casino operations. Speaking to local press at the Kaban Hotel and Casino Boracay opening this week, he said the Commission for Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations (GCG) will likely recommend the proposal to the Office of the President. Government approval is still needed for the plan to proceed.

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