Resorts World suspends operations

Resorts World Manila AP

The Travellers International Hotel Group Inc., which operates Resorts World Manila, has suspended gaming and some hotel operations until after the probe of the deadly incident at its gaming complex last Friday.

“We are currently focused on ensuring that the victims, both injured individuals and the families of the deceased, are being assisted and well taken care of,” the company said in a statement on Monday.

“Our company’s position is to voluntarily suspend operations in affected facilities [especially gaming areas] until all investigations are concluded by the [Philippine National Police] and [Bureau of Fire Protection] and safety is certified by appropriate authorities,” the company added.

The second floor of Resorts World Manila’s gaming area has been badly damaged after the fires started by debt-strapped gambler Jessie Javier Carlos.

Smoke from the fires killed 37 people—13 employees and 22 guests.

“We are doing our very best to inform the families of the victims. We are extending all forms of assistance to the affected next of kin. We are one in mourning with the families of those affected by this tragedy,” Resorts World Manila said.

The tragic incident only affected Maxims Hotel, an all-suite hotel where casino high-rollers stay, but neighboring Remingon and Marriott hotels remain operational.

Meanwhile, Travellers International Hotel Group Inc. also postponed its annual stockholders meeting, originally scheduled for June 9, to a “more appropriate” date.

“Testimonies of responding members of Resorts World Manila’s security team confirm that they were able to shoot and wound the gunman that attacked Resorts World Manila in the early hours of June 2, 2017. Severe blood loss from the gunshot wound significantly slowed the assailant down and resulted [in] his holing up in a room where he took his own life,” Resorts World Manila said.

Resorts World Manila expressed gratitude to its security team, particularly one Bernard Cajigas, who the gaming operator said had sustained a gunshot wound. The company also commended one Petronio Kinol Jr.

“We also commend the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection for their courage and efforts to contain the incident,” Resorts World Manila said.

Resorts World Manila also reiterated that there was only one gunman, who has been properly identified, involved in the attack.