Suntrust Manila Hotel Casino Announces a New Completion Date in Q4 2025

The long-awaited casino resort project by LET Group’s subsidiary Suntrust Resort Holdings in Manila’s Entertainment City has been delayed to the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025. The update was given during the company’s Philippine Stock Exchange filing on Thursday.

Suntrust had previously targeted an opening in late 2024. However, the firm mentioned in April that the property’s gaming and hotel offerings would be available to the public by Q1 2025. This new announcement suggests further delays to the fifth integrated resort in the Philippines.

Project Progress

In its latest filing, Suntrust included a progress report on the hotel casino, confirming significant progress in its structural works and major façade The report stated, “The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing and fire protection systems in major plantrooms have been substantially completed and part of the system has commenced testing and commissioning.”

However, the report pointed out that other areas still need time: “Architectural builders and fit-out works, and external civil works are in progress. Management aims to commence the operations of a 5-star hotel and casino establishment (Main Hotel Casino) in the fourth quarter of 2025.”

Hotel Casino Features

Primed to be the crown jewel of Suntrust’s portfolio, this casino resort venture will be decked out with an extensive selection of upscale amenities. The development will feature 475 luxury hotel rooms and a casino floor with 1,126 slot machines, 281 tables, and 134 electronic gaming tables upon completion. A pool deck, ballroom, grand opera house, four cinemas, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) spaces will also feature in the sophisticated destination.

Operational Confidence Despite Financial Challenges

While the casino resort shows much promise, Suntrust is under financial and operational pressure to complete such a massive project. The company reported a net loss of PHP477.6 million (US$8.1 million) from January to September. Operating costs during the nine months shot up to PHP493.3 million (US$8.4 million), a 66.6% rise year-on-year.

Suntrust has received two loans from its parent company, LET Group, amounting to US$55 million. It also secured a loan facility of US$446.6 million from China Banking Corp. in June.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) supports the project and is committed to its completion. In June, Alejandro Tengco, head of PAGCOR, emphasized confidence in the project. In October, Suntrust also entered an agreement with International Game Technology (IGT) to supply casino components for its gaming floor.