DigiPlus on the lookout for expansion prospects

MANILA, Philippines — Tycoon Eusebio Tanco is confident on the growth trajectory of DigiPlus Interactive Corp. amid prevailing headwinds, as the digital entertainment company continues to pursue expansion opportunities both locally and abroad.

“We will still be okay,” Tanco, chairman of DigiPlus, said when asked about his prospects for the company for 2026.

Tanco said DigiPlus’ performance in April and May “should be improving” compared to the first quarter of the year, when its net income declined by 33 percent to P2.8 billion as a result primarily of the delinking of e-wallet in-app access to licensed online gaming platforms combined with tempered consumer sentiment from the ongoing global fuel crisis.

“Apart from the geopolitical problem, we have a lot of local problems,” Tanco said.

To level the playing field in the online gaming space, Tanco said his wish is for the all licensed online gaming operators in the country to become publicly-listed.

“That’s what I am trying to fight for. Leveling the playing field. Since we are listed, you know who we are, who is behind the company. We have fit and proper rules for all directors and we follow good corporate governance. We’re very transparent. We follow strictly to the rules,” Tanco said.

“That’s why I want them to be listed in the local exchange, that’s my wish,” he said.

Amid the challenges, DigiPlus is pushing through with its international expansion while also exploring more opportunities in the land-based casino business.

DigiPlus plans to relaunch its Brazil operation next month and is in the middle of building the team that will develop the country’s South Africa venture, in time for its launch in 2027.

The company is also exploring opportunities to expand into adjacent and complementary segments that are aligned with its long-term strategy to develop a robust gaming and digital entertainment ecosystem.

On acquiring brick-and-mortar assets, Tanco said the company is open if there is an opportunity.

“If not, we walk. Simple. We’re exploring it, we’re looking at the opportunities, but we reserve the right to change our mind if the situation changes,” he said.

Last November, DigiPlus signed a convertible notes agreement which carry the rights to acquire a controlling economic stake in International Entertainment Corp. (IEC), a company listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.

The company will invest a total of P12 billion to purchase the convertible notes from IEC, the owner and operator of New Coast Hotel.