International Entertainment Corporation (IEC) has announced plans to launch a self-operated online gaming platform under its LaVie Resort & Casino Manila brand in the Philippines, targeting a mid-to-late November 2026 rollout. The Hong Kong-listed company will offer remote access to live-dealer table games and physical slot machines, marking a significant expansion beyond its current electronic gaming offerings.
IEC Assumes Direct Control Over Online Platform
This new phase signals a shift for IEC, which will now independently manage the technology, gaming equipment, and daily operations of its online casino. Previously, IEC partnered with local operators for its online gaming business. Through its subsidiary New Coast Leisure Inc. (NCLI), the company will oversee the software, physical gaming assets, staffing, customer support, technical services, and regulatory compliance. This approach is distinct from its earlier non-exclusive content agreement with Total Gamezone Xtreme Inc., a DigiPlus Interactive Corporation subsidiary.
Remote Access to Live Casino and Slots
The upcoming platform will enable eligible customers physically located in the Philippines to participate remotely in live-dealer games and physical slots based at LaVie Resort & Casino Manila. The offering will include live-dealer versions of Commission Baccarat, Super 6 Baccarat, and Tiger Baccarat, with games streamed from the casino floor. Remote access to certified slot machines will also be available. While the platform is designed to support additional games such as electronic bingo and online poker, these will not be available at launch.
Regulatory Oversight and Operational Restrictions
NCLI will continue as the licensed operator, subject to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR)'s oversight. Access will be restricted to users within the Philippines, with geolocation and VPN-blocking measures in place. All gaming products must be certified by PAGCOR-recognized testing labs. PAGCOR also limits the proportion of land-based gaming equipment offered online to 25% of the approved maximum, unless otherwise authorized. IEC has secured the necessary approvals and has paid required deposits for this second phase.
Financial Implications for Operators and Stakeholders
The self-operated online platform brings new financial responsibilities for IEC, including PAGCOR's share of gross gaming revenue, licensing and monitoring fees, a 5% franchise tax, a 10% audit fee on PAGCOR's revenue share, and a 1% contribution to a designated foundation. The move aligns with broader trends in the Philippine casino sector, where operators such as Bloomberry Resorts are also expanding their digital offerings.
Key takeaways
- IEC aims to launch its self-operated LaVie Manila online casino in November 2026.
- The platform will offer remote access to live-dealer table games and physical slots for Philippine-based players.
- IEC will manage all aspects of the platform, moving away from previous partnership models.
- Strict PAGCOR regulations and financial obligations will apply to the new digital operation.