LaVie Manila Targets November Launch For Self-Operated Online Casino

International Entertainment Corporation (IEC) is targeting a mid-to-late November 2026 launch for a self-operated online gaming platform under its LaVie Resort & Casino Manila brand.

The Hong Kong-listed company plans to introduce remote access to live-dealer table games and physical slot machines at its Manila casino, expanding beyond the electronic gaming products already offered through its existing online operations.

In a regulatory filing dated 30 October, IEC confirmed that the platform remained in the final stages of integration, testing and evaluation, with commercial operations dependent on the successful completion of those processes.

The launch will mark the second phase of IEC's online gaming expansion in the Philippines, with the company assuming direct responsibility for the technology, gaming equipment and day-to-day operations.

IEC Takes Direct Control Of Online Gaming Operations

Unlike the first phase of its online gaming business, which involved partnerships with established Philippine operators, IEC will independently manage the new platform.

Through its subsidiary New Coast Leisure Inc. (NCLI), the company will own and operate the gaming software and technology infrastructure while supplying the physical tables, slot machines and associated equipment.

IEC will also oversee staffing, customer support, technical services, financial controls and regulatory compliance, giving the group direct operational control over the platform.

The arrangement differs from a non-exclusive agreement signed on 9 June between NCLI and Total Gamezone Xtreme Inc., a subsidiary of DigiPlus Interactive Corporation, covering the provision and operation of approved online gaming content.

By bringing the second phase in-house, IEC is seeking greater control over its digital gaming offering while building on its established land-based casino operations.

Players To Access Live Tables And Physical Slots Remotely

The new platform will allow eligible registered customers physically located in the Philippines to participate remotely in casino games operated from a designated area of LaVie Resort & Casino Manila.

The offering will include live-dealer versions of Commission Baccarat, Super 6 Baccarat and Tiger Baccarat, with gaming tables and dealers operating from the casino property.

IEC confirmed that the infrastructure required for remote table gaming has already been established, including live-dealer facilities, gaming systems and game aggregation support.

Customers will also be able to access physical slot machines remotely, with game outcomes determined by certified random number generators.

The wider platform is expected to support RNG-based electronic games, electronic table games, arcade and specialty games, electronic bingo and online poker.

However, IEC clarified that commercial operations for electronic bingo, online poker and specialty games had not yet commenced, meaning their inclusion in the planned portfolio does not confirm their immediate availability.

PAGCOR Requirements Restrict Access And Gaming Capacity

NCLI will remain the licensed operator responsible for wagering activities under the oversight of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

Access will be restricted to customers physically located within the Philippines, with systems designed to block overseas IP addresses and attempts to bypass geographical restrictions using virtual private networks.

Gaming products will also require certification from Gaming Laboratories International or other testing laboratories recognised or accredited by PAGCOR, where applicable.

IEC stated that it had obtained the material licences, approvals and accreditations necessary for the second phase and paid the required performance cash deposit.

The regulator also imposes limits on the proportion of land-based gaming equipment that can be made available online. Unless otherwise authorised by PAGCOR, remote access cannot exceed 25% of the approved maximum number of gaming tables, slot machines or electronic table games.

These restrictions are intended to ensure that online operations remain within the capacity and regulatory conditions approved for the casino.

Online Expansion Brings Additional Financial Obligations

IEC's online gaming operations will be subject to several financial obligations, including PAGCOR's applicable share of gross gaming revenue, licensing fees and monitoring charges.

The company must also pay a 5% franchise tax on revenue, alongside an additional audit fee equivalent to 10% of PAGCOR's revenue share.

A further contribution equal to 1% of electronic gaming gross gaming revenue is required for the designated foundation.

The planned launch comes as other Philippine casino operators expand their digital operations. Bloomberry Resorts introduced its internally developed FUNaloMAX platform in July, complementing its existing Solaire Online offering.

For IEC, the move towards a self-operated platform represents a further expansion of its casino business, combining its physical gaming facilities with digital distribution.

Although the company is targeting a November launch, IEC has not confirmed an exact opening date, with the rollout remaining subject to final technical testing and evaluation.