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Gaming technology company DigiPlus Interactive Corp is set to become the top contender for the likely acquisition of Melco Resorts & Entertainment’s stake in City of Dreams Manila, per a recent report by local Philippines media publication Bilyonaryo. The firm has neither denied the rumor nor confirmed it, but maintained that it remains assessing acquisition prospects as part of its strategic growth.
Melco initially declared in February 2025 that it intended to pursue strategic alternatives for its interest in City of Dreams Manila as part of an “asset light” plan to maximize its portfolio. As of May, Melco confirmed that it was already in talks with possible acquirers and creating a shortlist for sale.
Reasons Behind the Possible Acquisition
Bilyonaryo reports that DigiPlus has been negotiating with Melco for months to acquire stakes of City of Dreams Manila, owned 50 percent by Belle Corp and controlled by the Sy family. The acquisition would be part of DigiPlus’s plan to diversify as regulatory pressure builds in the Philippine online gaming sector, where DigiPlus is a market leader.
Buying into one of the nation’s leading land-based integrated resorts would not only give DigiPlus tangible assets but also radically enhance its remote gaming operations using the augmented land-based presence as a hub for broadcasting its digital product.
DigiPlus Response and Strategic Vision
DigiPlus said that it remains to consider potential acquisitions that would expand its current digital assets in its strategic growth program. The firm went on to say that no definite commitments or tangible plans have yet been established at this point.
This indicates the company’s prudent approach with a big-time acquisition, looking at opportunities but not acting too hastily.
Market Conditions and Business Context
The Philippine land-based casino industry has experienced headwinds in 2025, particularly with reduced arrival volumes in important markets like South Korea and China. In such an environment, expansion through asset purchase might provide DigiPlus with strong diversification and positioning to take advantage of recovery as overseas travel continues to normalize.
City of Dreams Manila, being an integrated resort, is a stage where DigiPlus can expand its revenue streams and footprint in both remote and physical gaming markets.
Impact on the Philippine Gaming Market
If the acquisition pushes through, DigiPlus would impact the Philippine gaming industry by merging its expertise in online gaming with proven land-based operations. This would essentially intensify competition and innovation in the market.
The deal reflects the way operators are shifting tactics in reaction to new regulations and market pressures by looking for synergies between land-based assets and new digital gaming trends.
Next Steps Remain Subject to Final Decisions
Currently, DigiPlus’s potential acquisition is still under review as part of a bidding process led by Melco. Both firms seem eager to form a strategic alliance that fulfills long-term growth objectives.
Watchers and investors alike will be keenly observing, considering the possible influence of the acquisition on market dynamics as well as operator portfolios in the Philippines.
Positioning for the Future
DigiPlus’s apparent interest in City of Dreams Manila follows larger industry trends where gaming operators shift toward multi-component offerings will blend the physical space and digital innovation.
As regional regulatory structures change, such strategies might prove to be key in driving sustainable growth and increasing market resonance.
Source: Inside Asian Gaming (IAG)
