BIZ BUZZ: Clark hits the Belle’s eye
Despite the rumor mill running wild that the gaming-focused investment firms of delisted subsidiary Premium Leisure Corp. (PLC) had plans to conquer Clark, Belle opted to keep quiet.
Nearly half a year later, Belle hailed Clark as “the next gaming and tourism hub” and confirmed that they had, indeed, applied for a gaming license specifically to develop an integrated resort in the former American air base.
Belle president and CEO Armin Raquel Santos likewise expressed optimism on his company’s growth prospects, “and bullish on the Philippine gaming market and its resilience despite industry headwinds.”
”Belle, through its gaming subsidiaries, continues to explore and pursue related ventures and high-growth opportunities in the gaming space that will enhance shareholder value, while delivering its commitments to all stakeholders,” the company quoted Santos as saying.
Though much still remains unsaid about Belle’s plans for Clark, it is clear that the gaming industry is still attractive despite some weakness and hiccups—Bloomberry Corp.’s earnings, for instance, and Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy’s long-stalled Cebu casino project.
Let’s see if Belle will go against the odds.
