Galaxy hasn’t pulled out of Boracay: Pagcor

Wednesday 18th of April 2018

The Philippines gaming regulator has denied recent claims that Galaxy Entertainment Group would abandon its plans for an integrated resort in Boracay, saying that a final decision has yet to be made on the issue.

In a text message, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) chair Andrea Domingo reportedly expressed surprise at the statements made by tourism officials that the gaming giant had pulled out from the deal, according to a report from The Inquirer.

Domingo said there was no formal communication between the two agencies about the matter, and that Galaxy also had not informed Pagcor of any changes to its plans to build a $500 million resort on the island.

On Tuesday, Leisure and Resorts World Corp., the proposed partner to Galaxy for the Boracay IR project also denied that the duo had shelved any plans for the IR.

"Both parties have not reached any final decision regarding its planned Boracay resort project. Following protocol, no change in plans or project location would be made without prior consultation and agreement with Pagcor," GMA News cited LRWC vice president and corporate secretary Katrina Nepomuceno as saying.

"Contrary to claims that Galaxy has abandoned its planned Boracay project, no such announcement has been made nor communicated with Pagcor," she added.

However, the latest pronouncements run contrary to statements made by the Tourism department, with Tourism Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre telling news reporters that the two partners would seek alternatives.

"Galaxy has said they are now looking for another venue. That is very much welcome," Alegre was reported by local media as saying.

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