Velvix Strengthens Philippines Presence with LaVie Casino Deal

Gambling provider Velvix is expanding its position in the Philippines. A new deal with LaVie Resort & Casino Manila, signed on Monday, July 13, 2026, solidifies this expansion. Velvix will supply 16 electronic gaming machines with its “CurlX EGM” product. This package covers not only the devices but also delivery, installation, training, and comprehensive backend support. This is a strategic decision for the growing Asian market.

The Philippines is considered an important growth market in the global gambling sector. For Velvix, this partnership represents a significant step forward. Other companies like DigiPlus Interactive are also investing in the online gaming sector of this region. The industry there is dynamic.

Numbers and facts

Velvix is supplying a total of 16 electronic gaming machines to LaVie Resort & Casino Manila. The “CurlX EGM” products include hardware as well as a full range of services. These include logistical handling of delivery, professional on-site installation, detailed training for casino staff, and ongoing backend support. The goal is to ensure the smooth operation of the devices. This is a significant investment for Velvix.

Stanley Ku, CEO of Velvix, emphasized the importance of this market: > “The Philippines is an exciting and important market for Velvix.” - Stanley Ku, CEO of Velvix

He sees the agreement as a crucial opportunity to introduce the “CurlX” platform and game content to local players and operators. Stephen Tham, Vice President of Slot Operations at LaVie, also spoke positively. He highlighted the “strong and consistent performance” of Velvix products.

“Velvix’s slot machines have demonstrated strong and consistent performance against our operating benchmarks, meeting the standards we look for in the Philippine market and showing the potential to compete in a highly demanding environment.” - Stephen Tham, Vice President of Slot Operations at LaVie

He expects that Velvix’s game content and hardware will strengthen the casino's game selection. This should provide players with a more compelling experience and create growth opportunities.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) also showed strong financial performance in April 2026. It remitted 5.67 billion Philippine Pesos in dividends for 2025. This made PAGCOR the fifth-largest remitter among state-owned corporations. These figures underscore the economic relevance of the gaming sector in the region.

Background

Manila is continuously developing its digital gaming offerings. For example, “OKADA PLAY” launched in Okada Manila in May 2026. These developments indicate a trend towards digitalization. Meanwhile, changes occurred in the US. Sam's Town in Tunica, a casino that operated for 31 years, was demolished. This happened less than a year after its closure in November 2025. Boyd Gaming, the operator, cited declining demand in the Tunica market as the reason. This development in Mississippi illustrates that not all gaming markets worldwide are flourishing. While some markets consolidate or shrink, others, like the Philippines, experience strong growth.

The regional gaming industry in Tunica has been shrinking since 2014, with only five casinos remaining. Legislative proposals in Mississippi, such as a tax reduction on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) from 8 percent to 6 percent, failed. This measure would have saved casinos about 48 million US dollars annually. In Virginia, where nearly 99 million US dollars in adjusted gross revenue (AGR) were generated in April 2026, political debates also continue. The Governor of Virginia blocked a bill, Senate Bill 661, which would have legalized up to 25,000 electronic skill game machines statewide. These examples highlight the differing regulatory approaches and market developments globally.

Why it matters for German players

For German players, developments in the Philippines have no direct impact. The gambling market in Germany is strictly regulated by the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). This treaty sets clear rules for online gambling. It protects players from potential risks.

German players should only use online casinos listed on the GGL-Whitelist of the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL). Only these providers are legal in Germany. They meet the highest standards in player protection. This includes a stake limit of 1 Euro per spin on slot machines. Additionally, there is a monthly deposit limit of 1,000 Euros via the LUGAS system. This system monitors deposits from all players across various providers. German providers, such as GGL-licensed casinos, are safe. Their licenses are transparent. Examples include casinos like Jokerstar, Merkur Spiel, or Novoline.

Providers from jurisdictions such as Malta (MGA) or Curaçao are illegal in the German market. They are not subject to the strict requirements of the GlüStV 2021. Therefore, they do not offer the same level of player protection. Players should always consult the GGL-Whitelist. This protects against unpleasant surprises.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

Velvix's expansion in the Philippines illustrates the different market strategies of international gambling companies. While Germany focuses on consolidation and strict regulation, other markets seek growth. For GGL-licensed casinos, this means they must concentrate on the German market. Adherence to strict German guidelines is central. Innovation and player retention are paramount. International gambling practices do not always align with German standards.

GGL-licensed casinos do not need to concern themselves with Asian markets. The focus is on compliance with the GlüStV 2021. This ensures their market position and player trust in the long term. The German market offers its own growth opportunities. Responsible gaming is a priority here.