Hann Casino Resort: Hann Casino Resort is one of the Philippines’ premier integrated resorts, located in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. With its upscale hospitality, casino, retail, and leisure offerings, it is positioning itself as a top-tier destination in Southeast Asia. But behind this resort’s glamorous façade lies a compelling corporate story involving international investment, local partnerships, and strategic development.
This article delves into who owns Hann Casino Resort, how it was developed, and what the future looks like for this ambitious project.
Corporate Ownership of Hann Casino Resort
Hann Casino Resort is owned and operated by Hann Philippines Inc., a Filipino company with deep-rooted ties to South Korean investors and visionaries. The primary figure behind Hann Philippines is Daesik Han, a South Korean entrepreneur and businessman who has become a prominent figure in Philippine gaming and hospitality sectors.
Ownership Structure
| Entity/Individual | Role | Country of Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Hann Philippines Inc. | Resort Owner and Developer | Philippines (Registered) |
| Daesik Han | CEO & Majority Shareholder | South Korea |
| Incheon-based Investors | Strategic Investment Partners | South Korea |
| Clark Development Corp | Land Leased from (Government Entity) | Philippines |
Key Facts:
- Hann Philippines Inc. holds the operational license.
- The project is under the jurisdiction of the Clark Development Corporation, which manages the economic zone.
- While the firm is Filipino by registration, the ownership and capital are internationally linked, primarily to Korea.
Background and Development
The Hann brand is relatively new but was born from a previous venture known as Widus Hotel and Casino. Daesik Han was already involved in Widus, and after gaining extensive experience, he rebranded and expanded the project under the new Hann brand to appeal to a more luxurious market.
Timeline of Development
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2008 | Widus Hotel and Casino opened |
| 2015 | Major expansion began |
| 2020 | Rebranding to Hann Casino Resort initiated |
| 2021 | Soft opening of Hann Casino Resort |
| 2022 | Full-scale operations began |
Facilities and Offerings
Hann Casino Resort is more than just a casino—it’s an integrated luxury destination offering a wide range of services, including high-end hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and retail outlets.
Facility Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Casino | Table games, slots, and VIP gaming rooms |
| Hotel Accommodations | Managed by brands like Swissôtel and Clark Marriott |
| Dining | High-end restaurants and bars, both local and international cuisine |
| Retail | Designer boutiques and souvenir shops |
| Golf & Leisure | Part of larger “Hann Reserve” vision including golf courses |
Expansion Plans: Hann Reserve
Hann Casino Resort is just one component of a larger dream—Hann Reserve, a multi-billion-peso luxury mountain resort development in New Clark City. This will include golf courses, private villas, eco-parks, and more, further embedding Hann’s presence in the premium travel market.
Hann Reserve Vision
| Element | Planned Features |
|---|---|
| Golf Destination | Designed by world-renowned golf course architects |
| Luxury Villas | Exclusive, high-end residential accommodations |
| Eco-Tourism Attractions | Waterfalls, hiking trails, nature conservation zones |
| International Branding | Collaborations with elite global hospitality brands |
Business Model and Regulatory Framework
Hann Casino Resort operates within the special economic framework of Clark Freeport Zone, which allows more flexible tax and foreign investment policies.
Regulatory and Business Environment
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Body | Clark Development Corporation (CDC) |
| Gaming Regulation | Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) |
| Land Use | Long-term lease from CDC; foreign ownership restrictions are bypassed |
| Investment Incentives | Tax holidays, reduced import/export duties, repatriation of profits |
Leadership: The Vision of Daesik Han
Daesik Han is widely credited for transforming Clark’s gaming and hospitality landscape. With a background in international business and a long-standing commitment to Philippine development, Han is not just a businessman but a strategic visionary.
His Key Contributions:
- Shifted the focus from mid-market gaming to high-luxury integrated resorts.
- Fostered local employment and training programs.
- Created partnerships with global hospitality brands to elevate service standards.
Economic and Social Impact
| Impact Area | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Employment | Thousands of jobs for locals in construction, hospitality, and gaming |
| Tourism | Attracted high-spending tourists from Korea, China, and beyond |
| Infrastructure | Stimulated road, utility, and telecom development in the area |
| Local Economy | Boosted Pampanga’s real estate and retail activity |
Conclusion
Hann Casino Resort is a shining example of international collaboration, visionary leadership, and strategic urban development. Though owned and led by a South Korean entrepreneur, it remains rooted in the Philippines’ growth story — turning Clark into a global leisure and investment destination.
As Hann Reserve unfolds, the company’s footprint will only grow, promising both luxury and economic development in equal measure.
