Suntrust targets late 2025 opening for $1.1 billion Manila integrated resort

Suntrust Resort Holdings said its long-delayed Westside City integrated resort in Manila is now on track to open in the fourth quarter of 2025, with key construction milestones achieved and interior works underway.

The $1.1 billion development, located within Manila’s Entertainment City, spans 31 hectares and will feature a 475-room five-star hotel, spa and wellness centre, extensive event facilities, and a large-scale casino complex. 

As of December 31, 2024, structural work, including the main façade, had been completed, and core mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems were substantially finished, according to the company’s 2024 annual report.

“The mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems in major plantrooms have been substantially completed. And part of the system has commenced testing and commissioning,” the company said. Interior fit-outs, external civil works, and landscaping are currently in progress.

The resort’s amenities will include a 550-person ballroom, two 800-seat theatres, a 3,000-seat performing arts venue, a grand opera house, four cinemas, and more than 1,000 parking bays. The casino will house 281 gaming tables, 1,126 slot machines, and 134 electronic table games, catering to both general and VIP players.

Westside City will become the fourth integrated resort in Entertainment City, joining Okada Manila, City of Dreams Manila, and Solaire Resort. All are situated in Parañaque City, close to Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Despite the progress, Suntrust flagged several risks that could affect the project’s long-term performance, including economic uncertainty, construction material shortages, regulatory challenges, and mounting regional competition.

The annual report highlighted the growing pressure from other Asian gaming destinations, with new integrated resorts scheduled to open in the United Arab Emirates and Japan in 2027 and 2030, respectively. Thailand is also considering legislation to enter the casino sector.

Suntrust has engaged IGT in a $5.3 million deal to provide the casino management system for the resort.

The company is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-listed LET Group Holdings, formerly known as Suncity Group. LET has faced significant upheaval in recent years, including the conviction of former chairman Alvin Chau in 2023 for illegal gambling and organized crime, and a suspended share trading status on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange after a failed divestment in Russia’s Tigre de Cristal.

LET expects a $27.71 million loss for 2024, compared with a $7.5 million profit the year before, citing costs associated with the Westside City development.

“The group remains committed to ensuring compliance and demonstrating suitability for continued listing as it navigates the challenges posed by market conditions and regulatory expectations,” LET Chairman Andrew Lo said.