The Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) has announced its endorsement of the SiGMA Asia 2024 event.

In an upcoming interview for SiGMA magazine, CEZA CEO and Administrator Katrina Ponce Enrile discussed the significant growth potential in the Asia Pacific region, driven by increased smartphone usage and the legalization of online gambling.?

Ahead of the SiGMA Asia conference and expo  taking place in Manila this June from the 2nd to 6th, she highlighted the Philippines’ potential to become a major gaming hub due to its favorable regulatory environment, strategic location, and tech-savvy population.

“The Asia Pacific region is poised for exponential growth, driven by factors such as increased smartphone usage, an emerging population of digital users, and the progressive legalization of online gambling. With the Asia Pacific region anticipated to register a compound annual growth rate of over 12.0% through 2030 and will witness 333 million new mobile internet subscribers by 2025, the opportunities are immense.

“The Philippines definitely has what it takes to become a major player in the gaming world. With its improving regulatory environment, strategic location, tech-savvy population, and high smartphone usage, it’s primed to make waves. The Philippines is in a sweet spot to ride that wave and potentially become a top gaming hub in the region.”     

Ms Ponce Enrile will also deliver a keynote during the official opening ceremony on the 4th, alongside PAGCOR chairman and CEO, Alejandro H. Tengco, PEZA Director General, Tereso O. Panga, and the Mayor of Pasay, Imelda Calixto-Rubiano. The keynotes will be followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony and a performance from the Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild, which is sponsored by the Philippine Tourism Promotion Board.

As SiGMA gears up for its June summit, which is being held at the SMX Convention Centre in Manila, it has secured a number of key endorsements, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), and the Philippine Tourism Promotion Board.

The SIGMA Asia summit is scheduled to take place from June 2nd to 6th at the SMX Convention Centre, Manila’s largest expo venue. This event will bridge SiGMA’s extensive Western network with Asian suppliers, operators, and affiliates, fostering new business opportunities and offering premium networking for an anticipated 20,000 delegates.

Over two full days, the conference will serve as a platform for knowledge sharing and debate. VIP speakers will cover topics from regulatory landscapes to the integration of new technologies, while competitive startup pitches will highlight innovative new companies and ideas.

Endorsed by PAGCOR, PEZA, The Philippine Tourism Promotions Board, and CEZA, the event promises an exclusive guest lineup, including 3,000 operators and over 350 top speakers, making it a must-attend gathering for industry professionals.

Featuring a double-decker expo floor, SiGMA Asia will showcase a diverse array of B2B and B2C brands, alongside numerous land-based exhibitors, establishing it as one of Asia’s largest gaming shows. The event will spotlight emerging technologies, including AI and Blockchain, bringing cutting-edge advancements to the forefront.