Solaire owner targets 2027 profit after relaunching online gaming
Bloomberry Resorts Corp. expects 2026 to remain a difficult year for its flagship Solaire properties as the Philippine gaming industry grapples with sluggish tourism and weakened VIP market.
During the firm’s annual stockholders’ meeting, Enrique K. Razon Jr., chairman and chief executive officer, said that the on-premise gaming landscape in Metro Manila faces persistent headwinds.
The billionaire executive noted that the primary area of “softness” remains the high-stakes VIP segment, which has historically been the significant driver of revenue for the integrated resort operator.
The broader economic environment has further clouded the Bloomberry’s outlook. While initial forecasts pegged Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) growth between five percent and six percent this year, Razon suggested those targets are now likely out of reach.
He cited the recent conflict in Iran and the prevailing energy crisis as primary catalysts for the revised economic sentiment, which may dampen consumer discretionary spending.
In response to the tightening market, Razon said Bloomberry is pivoting its strategy toward aggressive cost-cutting and capital discipline.
The company, which began streamlining operations in late 2024, has significantly reduced its capital expenditure budget for 2026.
Razon said that the current fiscal year will be defined by operational efficiency and more targeted approach to marketing and promotions. The goal, he said, is to position the company for a return to profitability across all segments by 2027.
Despite the austere budget, the company is continuing to refine its physical assets to maintain market leadership.
At Solaire Resort Entertainment City, Bloomberry recently introduced new attractions including a specialized Sports Club, a flexible events venue dubbed The Space, and the Dragon Room themed gaming area.
The property also added several luxury retail tenants. Meanwhile, Solaire Resort North in Quezon City continues its ramp-up with the introduction of the Trattoria e Dolci and Quezon Club dining concepts, alongside a premium gaming floor on the 36th level.
Beyond its physical casinos, Bloomberry is looking toward the digital space for future growth. Razon expressed “cautious optimism” regarding the relaunch of the company’s mass-market online gaming platform.
Originally introduced as MegaFUNalo, the digital service encountered early technical hurdles and has been rebranded as FUNalo Max.
The Bloomberry chief said the company has spent the early part of the year ironing out technical kinks to ensure a user-friendly experience.
Following a soft launch this month, Bloomberry plans to intensify marketing efforts once the platform’s performance stabilizes. While the digital segment is still in its nascent stages, Razon indicated that the online business could turn positive as early as next year.