The integrated resort (IR) industry in the Philippines is experiencing a surge, driven by the appeal of one-stop leisure destinations that combine gaming, hospitality, leisure, and recreation. While IRs aren’t new, the excitement and interest in them are rejuvenated, thanks in part to the post-pandemic economic recovery and the phenomenon of revenge travel.
In this vibrant and competitive landscape, Hann Resorts stands out boldly as a leader in offering the most distinctive IR experiences in the country. For Hann Philippines Chairman and Chief Executive Dae Sik Han, the core values of courage, creativity, and collaboration are the keys to their success. These values, he believes, are essential for both leaders and team members to disrupt the status quo and challenge norms, creating IR destinations that are compelling and exceptional. This dedication is reflected in the company’s “Play Bold, Live Bold” philosophy.
“[For] the company’s growth, teamwork is essential. While individual performance or expertise is a given, I place equal importance on collaboration. Together, we can achieve more than any individual can do alone. Through open dialogue, brainstorming sessions, and shared ideas, we’re building a creative and collaborative company culture,” he said.
Courage: Boldly going where no one has gone before
Mr. Han has built a reputation as a maverick CEO, known for his bold moves and calculated risks. His journey in the Philippines is legendary. As a golfer visiting Clark in the early 2000s, he saw immense potential in the area and staked his claim by establishing Widus Hotel, followed by a casino. In 2021, amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Han launched the Hann Resorts brand for luxury IR developments, transforming Widus into Hann Casino Resort, the first of its kind in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. He also unveiled plans for the ultra-luxe Hann Reserve golf and eco-tourism community in New Clark City, Tarlac.
For Mr. Han, courage means breaking traditions and challenging conventions. His mark on the IR scene includes bringing the first five-star hospitality brands to Clark beginning with Marriott in 2018 and Swissotel in 2021—the first in the Philippines as well—and soon, Banyan Tree at Hann Reserve in New Clark City, Tarlac by 2026.
Agnes “Neki” Liwanag, Hann Philippines Vice President for Real Estate and Property Management, witnessed Mr. Han’s courageous spirit firsthand. Whenever she would discuss and negotiate requests on his behalf with regulators—the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC)—she learned that growth comes when people step out together in courage, into the unknown.
“CDC has been very supportive of Hann. I have had several meetings with them throughout the years, and all of my requests were usually a first for them – a first experience for the organization. Hann was always trailblazing, that we ended up affecting change in policies. We were the reason why they needed to change policies. This was because the vision of CDC before was focused on manufacturing and industrial. So when we came in with proposals for hospitality and lifestyle, policies were not yet aligned with our requests.
We had so many innovations in terms of our business models, in terms of what we wanted to do in Clark. So we had several meetings with them, and gratefully, all our requests were approved. We are really thankful for CDC. They were very supportive, and as a result, they also grew with us.”
Creativity: Crafting iconic design and presence
Hann Resorts’ creativity shines through its iconic design and bold physical presence.
Hann Casino Resort in Clark, Pampanga, exemplifies this with its sleek, modern architecture, becoming a landmark akin to Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Inside, the resort blends luxury with local elements, from intricate woodwork and woven textiles to regional food inspirations, offering a unique Vegas-style casino experience.
In Tarlac, the upcoming Hann Reserve will also be iconic, emphasizing sustainability and environmental sensitivity. The design harmonizes with the natural landscape, using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies. Local elements highlight indigenous culture, creating an immersive experience that connects guests with nature and heritage. Luxurious accommodations will prioritize comfort while minimizing environmental impact. This approach promotes appreciation for the Philippines’ rich cultural and natural heritage.
Hann Resorts’ commitment to iconic design and presence elevates their properties, positioning them as leaders in innovation and cultural integration.
Collaboration: Partnering for Success
Collaboration is crucial for Hann Philippines, involving partnerships with top experts in planning, design, and construction, and renowned brands like Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA), IHG Hotels and Resorts, Accor, and Marriott International.
Ms. Liwanag emphasizes this approach, “I think that the deliberate choice of partners helps the design team. It’s in that aspect that we continuously innovate in choosing the right design partners. If we want to compete globally, we have to get international designers. So what we usually do, we hire international consultants and partner them with the local counterpart, the architect and engineer of record. In the end, we spend more, paying for two groups, but we are willing to spend on that to make sure that the product we create is of global standard.”
Collaboration also means building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, working together toward common goals of positive change and progress. Working with regulators such as the CDC and BCDA, Hann contributes significantly to the local economy through employment, tax revenues, and tourism generation.
Hann is also committed to the welfare of Filipinos through the Hann Foundation Inc. (HFI). Established in 2017, HFI focuses on health, environment, education, and cultural heritage. Initiatives include enhancing rural health units, disaster relief operations, and sponsoring the TCLASS Construction Skills Laboratory in Tarlac.
HFI also supports cultural projects like the Child Development Center for Aeta children in Pampanga and the Abacan Loop Bridge Artist Hub in Angeles City. Environmental efforts are integrated into the development of Hann Reserve, promoting sustainability and eco-tourism.
Boldy living its vision and values
Hann Philippines exemplifies that living your values—courage, creativity, and collaboration—is a formula for enduring success. By staying true to its vision, Hann continues to lead and innovate in the Philippine IR sector, proving that bold moves and unwavering dedication can transform visions into reality, and set new benchmarks for the entire industry.
