Enchanted Kingdom plans US$100 million expansion, targets foreign visitors

Philippine theme park Enchanted Kingdom plans to spend over 5 billion Philippine Pesos (US$100 million) in the next 10 years to build an integrated resort aimed at foreign tourists.

Speaking in advance of the attraction's 18th anniversary, Enchanted Kingdom Chairman and President Mario Mamon explained "our ultimate dream is to have an integrated resort, like Disney.

"But there's no gambling. So, hopefully you will have everything there. We are busy doing the master plan.

"Hopefully it will happen within the next 10 years."

Mamon said the company will double the size of the theme park from its existing 15 hectares to accommodate hotels, convention facilities and a waterpark.

With the expansion, Mamon said the company expects to double its capacity to about four million from the existing 1.8 million visitors.

Mamon said Enchanted Kingdom is open to foreign investments for the planned expansion, adding "our goal is to help boost tourism both domestic and foreign."

At present, locals make up nine out of 10 visitors to Enchanted Kingdom.

As part of its 18th anniversary, Enchanted Kingdom plans to open a new horror attraction on 26th October after the successful attraction of SRR:XIII inspired by the Shake, Rattle and Roll Series.

Enchanted Kingdom will also offer a shuttle service in Eton Centris in Quezon City, adding to the existing one in Ayala Car Park, Makati City.

Enchanted Kingdom opened to the public in October 1995 and is the Philippines' largest amusement park.

For more information go to www.enchantedkingdom.ph/