Suntrust Secures Major Tech Partnership for Westside Casino Development

The Westside City project in Manila’s Entertainment City zone, spearheaded by Suntrust Resort Holdings Inc. In a strategic move to power this state-of-the-art casino resort, Suntrust has announced a substantial technology deal with global gaming giant International Game Technology (IGT) Plc.

The Westside City project, set to be the exclusive operator and manager of the main hotel casino within the Westside City Phase 1 development, is poised to become a premier destination in the Philippines’ burgeoning gaming and hospitality landscape. Situated within the bustling Entertainment City, this integrated resort complex is designed to offer a comprehensive range of entertainment, dining, and accommodation options, catering to both local and international visitors.

Strategically located in Manila, the Westside City project benefits from its proximity to the city’s thriving commercial and business districts, as well as its easy accessibility for both domestic and international travelers. The project’s integration within the larger Entertainment City development further enhances its appeal, positioning it as a key player in the country’s rapidly evolving gaming and tourism sectors.

According to the latest update from Suntrust’s indirect controller, Hong Kong-listed LET Group Holdings Ltd, the Westside City project is still targeted to have a 2025 opening. This ambitious timeline underscores the company’s commitment to delivering a world-class gaming and entertainment destination to the Philippines market in the near future.

The decision to partner with IGT was driven by the company’s vast experience and proven track record in the Philippines market. LET Group, in its filing, highlighted IGT’s multiple project implementations in Macau, Australia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, ensuring that the equipment, software, and services provided will be fully compliant with the requirements of Philippine government authorities and regulators.

The technology deal, valued at just under US$5.3 million, will see IGT’s Singapore-registered subsidiary, IGT Asia Pte Ltd, supply a comprehensive suite of gaming equipment, software, and services for the Westside City project. This includes a casino management system, mobile casino management software, responsible gaming solutions, table management software, and a range of analytical tools and modules.

The selection of IGT as the technology partner was the result of a competitive bidding process, where the company’s offering was deemed the “second lowest” among four contenders. Importantly, IGT’s products were recognized as having the “greatest functionality” among the competing proposals, solidifying its position as the preferred choice for Suntrust.

The technology solutions provided by IGT are designed to elevate the gaming experience at the Westside City project, catering to the evolving preferences and expectations of both casual and high-roller players.

The casino management system, with its machine accounting and patron management functions, will enable Suntrust to streamline operations and deliver a personalized experience for guests.

By leveraging IGT’s extensive experience in the Philippines market, the Westside City project can ensure that its gaming technology and services align with the stringent requirements of local government authorities and industry regulators.

While the Westside City project and Suntrust’s partnership with IGT represent significant milestones, the broader gaming industry in the region is not without its challenges and uncertainties.

In a separate filing, LET Group, which also controls the Tigre de Cristal casino resort in Russia’s Primorye region, acknowledged the significant challenges and uncertainties faced by its hotel and gaming operations due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the associated sanctions levied against Russia.