Bloomberry Flags AI as Risk for Philippine Casinos
Bloomberry Resorts Corp, one of the Philippines’ leading integrated resort operators, has highlighted artificial intelligence as an emerging risk that could affect employment and consumer spending in casinos. In its latest annual report, the Solaire owner warned that AI could replace customer service and back-office roles, potentially impacting the outsourcing sector and reducing consumer activity at gaming venues.
The country’s IT and business process management industry employs roughly 1.9 million people and generates over $40 billion in revenue annually, making it particularly vulnerable. Bloomberry noted that potential job losses driven by AI could reduce disposable income among consumers, a key source of casino revenue at locations such as Solaire Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North. This marks the first time the company has flagged AI as a specific risk in its disclosures.
Senator Bam Aquino has urged government agencies and industry associations to strengthen upskilling and reskilling initiatives, though Bloomberry cautions that even with such programs, consumer spending in casinos could still be affected as outsourcing jobs face AI-driven disruption.
Bloomberry also highlighted the impact of the digital shift. While AI may boost digital gaming, it could draw interest away from physical casino venues, potentially lowering revenues at Entertainment City and Clark. To address this, the operator launched MegaFUNalo in 2025, marking its first move into regulated digital gaming to diversify revenue streams.
The company reported a net loss in 2025, citing declines in VIP gaming activity and rising operating costs, even as mass gaming continued to perform strongly. The VIP segment, in particular, is at high risk from AI-related disruptions, creating a complex scenario where key revenue sources could also be affected by broader economic shifts.
Additional concerns include inflation and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which could reduce disposable income and raise operating expenses.
For the broader Philippine casino sector, Bloomberry’s focus on AI underscores the link between gaming and the wider economy. Outsourcing employs millions who support consumer activity in casinos and automation could reduce the number of on-site visitors. While digital gaming presents opportunities, the annual report signals that the pace of upskilling and workforce adaptation remains a concern. MegaFUNalo, meanwhile, represents the company’s proactive strategy to leverage digital growth, even as AI introduces both challenges and competitive pressures.