Manila Casinos Back To Full Capacity Despite Vax Confusion

The thriving casino industry in Manila was brought to a standstill due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the extended lockdown that was rolled out across the Philippines. Casino operators in Manila did not want to rush into things when they were allowed to reopen as they did not want a COVID-19 outbreak at their properties.

Most of the top casinos in the capital started operating at around 75 percent of their full capacity during mid-October, once the government started relaxing its lockdown measures. Casino operators in Manila have now relaxed most of their restrictions and are currently operating at nearly 90 percent capacity.

Travellers International Hotel Group Inc. which operates the popular Resorts World Manila was operating only at 50 percent capacity in October but is now ready to start operating at almost full capacity. All of the hotels and restaurants inside Resorts World Manila are back to normal.

City of Dreams Manila which is operated by a subsidy of Melco Resorts and Entertainment Ltd said they started operating at 90 percent capacity from 05 November and were accepting all guests over 21 years and over. Solaire Resort and Casino which is run by Bloomberry Resorts Corp said their casino was currently operating at a limited capacity and would now be accepting guests but did not specify if they would accept unvaccinated guests.

Confusion Over Vaccination Status

There still remains a lot of confusion as to which properties are accepting patrons who are vaccinated and which properties are accepting all patrons i.e. even those who are unvaccinated.

City of Dreams Manila confirmed that they were not imposing any mandatory vaccination criteria on their casino guests and anyone was free to enter their premises irrespective of their vaccination status.

However, they would only allow vaccinated guests to dine in at their restaurants which were operating at 60 percent capacity, minors could enter and don’t need to be vaccinated. Their Hyatt Regency hotel along with the spas and gyms would only accept vaccinated individuals.

Okada Manila which is run by a subsidiary of Japanese based Universal Entertainment released a vague statement claiming that all members as well as non-members will now be allowed to enter their premises and take part in gaming fun. The casino also advised patrons to wear their face shield and face mask at all times.