Casino Gaming Equipment Faces New Smart Table Rules in Manila

A bet is placed, chips change hands, and the dealer moves on to the next round. Most players barely notice the record-keeping that happens alongside the game. For casino staff, though, keeping track of bets and payouts is part of every shift. Four resorts in Manila are preparing to introduce technology that can record activity at the table, bringing casino gaming equipment into focus.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has set January 1, 2027, as the deadline for four Entertainment City resorts to begin the process of installing smart-table technology. The properties are City of Dreams Manila, Okada Manila, Newport World Resorts and Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Baccarat is expected to be the first game covered by the change, according to Inside Asian Gaming's report.

A Different Way to Track Table Games

A smart table can record details that staff would otherwise have to check through existing procedures. Depending on the system, RFID chips and other electronic tools can help monitor bets and chip movements. If a payout is questioned, supervisors may have a digital record to consult.

That does not make the dealer's job unnecessary. Someone still has to run the game, deal with players and respond when a problem comes up. The system provides additional information; staff must decide what to do with it.

Smart tables are not an entirely new idea. Casinos and technology suppliers have been exploring ways to record table-game activity for some time. Inside Asian Gaming's overview of the technology looks at its use across casino floors.

Getting the Equipment Ready

For gaming equipment manufacturers, the Manila deadline creates a practical challenge. Equipment must be installed in working casinos, not just demonstrated in a showroom. It needs to suit the games, work reliably and fit around the routines of dealers and supervisors.

Training will take time, too. Staff need to understand the system before they can rely on it during a busy shift. Casinos also need a plan for equipment failures and incomplete records. A technical problem cannot leave employees guessing about how to handle a game.

Suppliers are developing systems for different table games. Angel, for example, has discussed expanding its smart-table technology beyond baccarat to include blackjack, roulette and Sic Bo. The company outlined its plans in this report on wider table-game coverage.

The Cost of Changing Existing Tables

Resorts will have to consider more than the price of the equipment itself. Installation, staff training, maintenance and future upgrades all add to the work involved. The process also has to be managed without disrupting normal casino operations more than necessary.

There are questions about the records as well. Supervisors need to know how to check a disputed transaction and what to do if electronic information does not match what staff observed. Clear procedures will matter just as much as the hardware.

For the four resorts, the immediate task is to prepare for the January 2027 deadline. Once the systems are in use, operators will have a better idea of how well they fit their day-to-day work.

Will More Games Use Smart Tables?

Baccarat is expected to be the initial focus in Manila, but smart-table technology can be developed for other games. Wider use will depend on the systems available, their cost and how well they perform in real casino conditions.

The change gives operators and suppliers a reason to examine how table games are monitored. Whether it becomes common across more of the casino floor will depend on the results, rather than the technology's promise alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is casino gaming equipment?

It includes the tables, chips, machines and electronic systems used to operate casino games. Smart-table systems can record certain activities during play.

2. Which resorts are preparing for the new requirement?

The four properties are City of Dreams Manila, Okada Manila, Newport World Resorts and Solaire Resort Entertainment City.

3. What information can a smart table record?

Depending on the system, it can help track bets and chip movements. Supervisors may use the records when checking transactions.

4. What do gaming equipment manufacturers do?

They develop or supply casino equipment and may also handle installation, maintenance and technical support.

5. Will dealers still be needed?

Yes. Dealers continue to run the games and interact with players. Smart-table technology supports record-keeping rather than replacing the dealer.