The IAG Academy Summit 2024, a premier event in the Asian gaming industry, is set to begin today at Hilton Manila, Newport World Resorts. This year’s summit promises a packed schedule featuring keynote addresses, insightful panels, and networking opportunities over the next two days. The event will cover various aspects of the gaming and integrated resort (IR) sectors, offering participants a comprehensive look at industry trends and innovations.
Keynote Address by Alejandro Tengco
The summit will commence with a keynote address by Alejandro Tengco, Chairman and CEO of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Scheduled for 10 a.m., Tengco’s speech will provide critical insights into the current regulatory environment and future directions for the Philippine gaming industry. His perspective is anticipated to set the stage for the discussions and sessions that follow, highlighting key regulatory and industry developments.
Day’s Main Sessions and Discussions
The schedule for today includes a series of sessions designed to explore significant trends and issues within the gaming industry. The discussions will cover a range of topics, from new market opportunities to technological advancements and industry inclusivity.
Industry Insights and Market Opportunities
One of the highlight sessions is the President’s Fireside Chat featuring Nilo Rodriguez, CEO of Newport World Resorts, and Alan Teo, COO of NUSTAR Resort and Casino. This conversation will focus on the strategic directions and developments within major resorts and casinos, offering valuable insights into the current dynamics of high-profile gaming establishments.
Following this, a panel discussion on “Thailand and Other Greenfields” will take place. This session will include Paul Steelman, a renowned casino and IR architect, and David Green, a former regulator and advisor to the Macau SAR Government. The discussion will explore emerging market opportunities and the strategic planning necessary for developing new projects in the gaming industry.
Revitalizing Gaming Properties
Veteran industry consultant Niall Murray, known for his involvement in major projects such as Caesars Palace and The Venetian Las Vegas, will participate in a conversation with Andrew W. Scott, CEO of IAG.
Artificial Intelligence in Gaming
A key session later in the day will focus on the role of artificial intelligence in the gaming sector. Ian Hughes, CEO of GLI Australia, and Clayton Peister, Managing Director of Differential Labs, will discuss how AI technologies are transforming the industry. This panel will provide insights into how AI is enhancing operations, improving customer experiences, and shaping future industry trends.
Women in Gaming: Challenges and Progress
The day will conclude with a special session on Women in Gaming, moderated by Joy Andrade, Director for Corporate Communications at Newport World Resorts. This discussion will feature Katrina Mae de Jesus from NUSTAR, Dr. Manida Lau from Okada Manila, Rhoda Lopez from Newport, and Vina Oca from PAGCOR. The session will address the challenges faced by women in the gaming industry and explore efforts to promote greater inclusivity and gender equity.
IAG Academy IR Awards Gala
The IAG Academy IR Awards Gala Dinner will follow the day’s sessions, celebrating the winners of 22 award categories and inducting new Hall of Fame honorees. This event will recognize outstanding achievements and contributions across various facets of the gaming industry, offering a prestigious platform to honor industry excellence.
Future Developments: IAG Expo 2025
Looking ahead, the IAG Academy Summit will transition to the IAG Expo in 2025. The rebranded event will feature a large-scale exhibition dedicated to the land-based gaming industry, to be held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Newport World Resorts—the largest ballroom in the Philippines. The IAG Expo will include a broad range of activities, such as Manila After Dark, the IAG Academy Summit, and the IAG Academy IR Awards, providing an expanded platform for showcasing industry innovations and developments.
The IAG Academy Summit 2024 offers a crucial opportunity for industry professionals to engage with leading figures, explore emerging trends, and network with peers. As the event evolves into the IAG Expo in 2025, it will continue to highlight innovation and excellence in the gaming sector, presenting new opportunities for industry engagement and growth.