DigiPlus Interactive Corp. confirmed on Friday that it continues to evaluate potential acquisitions following media reports suggesting that the Philippines’ largest online gaming company could be the most likely buyer of City of Dreams Manila from Melco Resorts & Entertainment.
The company issued a statement to the Philippine Stock Exchange clarifying that ‘no definitive agreements or plans have been finalized at this time’ after reports emerged claiming DigiPlus was in advanced negotiations to acquire the integrated resort owned by Macau casino boss Lawrence Ho.
‘The company continues to evaluate potential acquisitions that may complement its existing digital assets as part of its strategic expansion program,’ DigiPlus stated in response to the stock exchange’s request for clarification regarding the September 18th, 2025 Bilyonaryo report.
The speculation comes amid a challenging period for the online gaming sector in the Philippines, with several senators calling for potential bans on digital gaming operations. These regulatory uncertainties have prompted DigiPlus to explore diversification strategies beyond its core digital platforms.
According to sources cited in earlier reports, DigiPlus had identified potential acquisition targets and engaged in preliminary discussions as part of efforts to expand into physical gaming operations. However, these talks reportedly stalled due to mounting political pressure on the online gaming industry.
The regulatory environment has created significant volatility for publicly listed gaming companies, with DigiPlus shares experiencing fluctuations on the Philippine Stock Exchange despite strong financial performance. The company posted a 61 percent growth in net income during the first half of 2025, with earnings totaling PHP8.4 billion ($147 million).
DigiPlus, which operates popular platforms including BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, has been actively pursuing international expansion to reduce reliance on the domestic market. The company plans to launch its GamePlus platform in Brazil on September 22nd, followed by BingoPlus expansion planned for next year. The board has also approved expansion into South Africa as part of its global growth strategy.
Total revenues climbed 47 percent to PHP47.78 billion ($835 million) from PHP32.56 billion ($569 million) in the previous year, supported by increased business activity and new games and licenses approved by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).
The potential acquisition discussions highlight the gaming industry’s adaptation to regulatory challenges. In August, DigiPlus joined the Interim Council of the PlaySafe Alliance of the Philippines, a coalition of 19 founding organizations committed to combating illegal gambling operations.
At the time, DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco emphasized the importance of industry cooperation, stating: “By working as one, we can ensure that online gambling in the Philippines becomes more secure, transparent, and beneficial to both players and the nation.”
The gaming regulator PAGCOR has acknowledged limitations in its enforcement capabilities against bad actors, noting that its charter restricts direct action against physical entities, passing enforcement responsibilities to other government departments including law enforcement agencies.
