On Monday, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) issued a cease-and-desist order to Fontana Development Corporation and Fontana Resort and Country Club Inc., immediately halting operations at Fontana Leisure Parks & Casino within the Clark Freeport Zone in the Philippines.
In a statement released Tuesday, CDC confirmed that the directive took effect at once because both companies failed to meet their financial and contractual obligations to the government-owned agency.
Moreover, the order requires the companies to “immediately cease all activities” across their leased properties—including the 52-hectare site currently operated by Korea Country Club Inc.—until they settle their outstanding responsibilities.
CDC also stressed that Fontana Development Corporation violated multiple conditions. Specifically, the company defaulted on financial obligations, breached lease agreement terms, and ignored safety requirements outlined in both the Fire Code and the National Building Code.
In addition, the agency warned that further violations could trigger stricter enforcement actions, including the possible termination of their lease contract. As a direct consequence, the shutdown affects over 500 workers—229 of whom work at the casino.
Meanwhile, Joseph Manalili, who serves as an internal security supervisor at the casino, revealed that casino staff fall under the management of Clark Resort Travel and Amusement Corporation. He also disclosed that salary delays for casino employees began in 2023. As a result, workers sought assistance from both CDC and the Department of Labor and Employment.
