DECEMBER 2015 ISSUE | 201512

Review of iGaming in 2015

2015iGaming
Gambling in Asia for the Year 2015: A Review

2015 Gambling Conventions

Oriental Game in 2015: A Year in Review

VOLUME 3 | 3

CONTENTS

About the Editor

ASIA iGAMING
in Asia for the Year 2015: A Review
5 Gambling
2015
8

My Experience at the Macao Gaming Show 2015

2015

ORIENTAL GAME
10

Oriental Game in 2015: A Year in Review

2015

This month's issue of The

Monthly Bet is mainly a
retrospective on iGaming for
the year 2015. As this year
is about to draw to a close,
we look back at the many
developments that occurred
in the world of gambling, both
in the land-based and online
sectors. Aside from these, we
also discussed certain
newsworthy items that
occurred over the past few
months. Of course, since this
is the Christmas season, we
also included a feature about
celebrations on the holidays
in Southeast and East Asia.

FEATURES
of Important Gambling Conventions
13 Highlights
That Happened in 2015
2015

17

SEO and iGaming: What Happened in 2015?

SEO 2015 ?

EUROPE iGAMING
22 VAT Exemption for Bitcoin: A Significant

Development in Europe for Digital Currencies

Bitcoin

24

Social Casino Players Prefer

Mobile Platform Over Web, Says Report

THIRD-PARTY PAYMENTS/
CRYPTOCURRENCIES
26 Alipay Approved for Use in Macau;

2015
2015

Casinos Unlikely to Offer Online Payment Service

CHRISTMAS

Look at the Different Christmas Traditions

28 AAcross
East, Southeast Asia

-Ivan, Writer/Editor

10

Oriental Game in 2015:

A Year in Review
2015

28

A Look at the Different

Christmas Traditions
Across East, Southeast Asia

Gambling in Asia for the Year

2015: A Review
2015

Gambling in Asia for the

Year 2015: A Review
2015

ast year, a well-known gambling niche website

featured its own fearless forecasts for the industry in
the year 2015. The predictions covered various
sectors of the gambling industry, some hot button issues
surrounding key industry players, and potential regional
developments. The website made mention of Asia, and
here is what it foresaw for the region for the year 2015 in
terms of gambling in general:
2015

2015
Macau will continue to experience problems
throughout 2015 as China is largely consistent and
determined with their crackdown on gambling. Said
problems will have a spillover effect on all gaming
jurisdictions across Asia that mostly rely on high
rollers from the mainland.
2015

ASIA iGAMING | Gambling in Asia for the Year 2015: A Review

The Philippines may be the home base for

Asian-facing online gambling companies, but the
country will be facing numerous challenges.

There is still potential for mobile wagering in the

Asian market in 2015.
2015.
The year 2015 is nearing its end and we are about to
welcome 2016 with open arms. A lot of things have
happened in Asian gambling, both in the land-based and
the iGaming sectors. What has happened over the last 11
months? Did the predictions mentioned above turned out
to be true? What other important gambling developments
and trends have happened over the course of this year?
More importantly, what may possibly happen next year
based on what happened this year?
2015 2016
11

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

Asian gambling in 2015

2015
Lets start with Macau. True enough, Chinas special
administrative region really did continue to experience
problems throughout 2015. It can be remembered that it
was July last year when the gross gaming revenue (GGR)
of Asias top gambling jurisdiction began its decline.
Since then, Macau went on a losing streak in the said
department; the year-on-year declines are now on its 17th
consecutive month (October 2015).
-2015.
7 GGR
2015-10
17
A number of factors contributing to this monthly decrease
in GGR in Macau is the almost stagnant growth of the
Chinese economy, which was highlighted by the
devaluation of the yuan, and the mainland governments
continuous crackdown on corruption. The latter is a
notable factor, as it forced high rollers from China to
maintain a low profile off Beijings radar.

As this is happening, gambling business have been

looking elsewhere to set up shop. In fact, many of them
have established their businesses in countries like South
Korea (Bloomberry Resorts Jeju Sun Hotel and Casino),
Russia (Tigre dela Cristal at Russias Primorye special
gambling region), and in one particular region: Southeast
Asia. There has been high interest in that part of Asia
mainly because it is a rising economy, giving them
opportunities to generate income. Knowing that countries
like the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar
are known to be tourism hotspots, there is growing

interest to do just that,

also because they are
aware of the prevailing
regulations in these areas.

Bloomberry
Jeju
Primorye
Tigre dela
Cristal,

In the Philippines, for example, both land-based and online

gambling are regulated. This is why 2015 saw the opening
of the City of Dreams Manila in Entertainment City and
the impending completion of the Manila Bay Resorts,
which has made headlines because of its delays. Elsewhere
in SE Asia, countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand,
and Myanmar have started welcoming these businesses.
In these jurisdictions, land-based casinos are allowed; the
catch is that these establishments can only allow
foreigners to play, not the locals. With Macaus GGR not
expecting to at least have a jolt of increase until the end
of this year as many analysts say, more and more Chinese
high-rollers may likely look elsewhere to go and gamble.
2015

Aside from land-based

casinos, the aspect of iGaming
has also seen considerable
growth this year, especially in
jurisdictions not named
Macau. In the Philippines
again, for example, the
existence of First Cagayan as
the premier online gambling
regulator in the country has
made it possible for
Asian-facing online gambling
companies to establish their
operations there. iGaming
facilities, most especially live
dealer casinos, has been
growing in numbers in Makati
City, as well as proxy (or
telephone) betting within
land-based casinos in Manila.

first

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

ASIA iGAMING | Gambling in Asia for the Year 2015: A Review

Cagayan

Makati

Indeed, it can be said

that Macaus decline
helped fuel the
unrelenting rise of
iGaming in Asia. As
already mentioned,
businesses are looking
elsewhere to set up
shop, and high rollers are going outside of Macau just to
gamble. But then, high rollers are not just attracted to
the recent developments in land-based casinos outside of
Macau. The advent of new technologies that are available
today sparked fascination amongst them, which made
them realize that they dont have to go to Macau or
anywhere else within Asia where casinos are sprawling.
Now, many of them are getting the thrill of using their
mobile phones, tablets, or laptops just to gamble, thanks
to Asian-facing online casinos.

Moreover, 2015 saw continuous activity in terms of mobile

gaming growth in other parts of Asia. Even though online
gambling is illegal in most jurisdictions around Asia, the
opportunity to promote mobile gambling is there due to
people becoming increasingly enamored with the use of
mobile phones, things that they cant live without. This
spurred social gambling makers to tap into the Asian
market, and it is even more evident this year. Aside from
social gambling, 2015 saw the continuous growth of
sports betting in Asia. Aside from horse racing, football,
basketball and other sports we know of, bettors have been
exposed or introduced to newer innovations in this sector
of online gaming. In fact, this year saw the growing
interest in betting on e-sports or professional gaming.
Many e-sports participants who join tournaments such as
League of Legends, Defense of the Ancients (DotA), and
other related online games come from the Asian region
like Korea and Japan. Thus, putting wagers on these
events has gained headway, gaining inspiration from Europe
which spearheaded this new form of iGaming in 2014.
2015

2015

,
2014
ASIA iGAMING | Gambling in Asia for the Year 2015: A Review

What may happen in 2016?

2016
Based on the Asian gambling highlights mentioned above,
it is definitely worth speculating what may happen come
next year. In Macau, analysts have commented that the
decline in GGR will continue towards the end of the 2015.
With the New Year fast approaching, there is still a dark
cloud of uncertainty hovering over the gambling hub.
Whether this losing streak will continue or not, it wont
hamper the growth of the many sectors of gambling in
the Asian market. For one, there is the prospect of Southeast
Asias positive economic trends, which is good news for
gambling businesses and other sectors of the industry. As
they establish footing in the region, it is possible that
come 2016, there will be an increased competition
among businesses, especially in the realm of iGaming.
Certain iGaming companies next year are likely to continue
coming up with innovations in their products or services
as a way of differentiating themselves from one another.

2016

The mobile sector, meanwhile, may grow even further,

largely thanks to the potential technological advances
that would be ushered in come next year, which would
then help spark a fresher approach in the ongoing and
exponential growth of Asia iGaming. As more and more
people are going mobile, it may not be surprising that
bettors bring their luck in front of their desktops and
laptops less and play online casino games more using
their phones. With technology analysts saying that in less
than two years a persons mobile phone will serve as his
or her computer, the prospect of boosting mobile gambling
in 2016 wouldnt be that farfetched. Also, with wearable
technology as a new vertical in the gambling industry
becoming a topic within European gambling jurisdictions,
it wont be surprising to think that this will be a
discussion next year in some Asian iGaming convention.

2016

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

My Experience at the
Macao Gaming Show 2015
2015
In the recently concluded Macao Gaming Show held in The
Venetian Macau, many industry players and experts used this
opportunity to showcase their new products and features,
get to know potential partners and customers, and know the
trends and insights for the gaming industry moving forward.

Interest moving into the

emerging markets

As an observer, you can see that there is a

significant interest in the Asian market.
Western people and companies are really
aggressively getting into the Asian market.
Before, the focus was only in Macau, but
because of easing restrictions in gambling
in other emerging markets in Asia along
with the rise of income in these regions,
investment and interests are still high. You
can see that the companies are really
pushing their products and services. They
are not just there to sell their products but
they have already put the Asian gamblers
interest in the products they have been
releasing which is a good sign. Innovations
in the iGaming sector and in the
mass-gaming sector were shown during the
show which has some potential to become
a big thing for Asian players.

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

New products, innovations

seen during MGS

Most companies use the MGS or any

gaming exhibition to showcase their
current products and launch new products
and services that they want to offer in the
market. Honestly, I did not see a lot of
new innovations but there were quite a
few that piqued my interest and would
love to share here. As I said earlier, with
the commitment of these companies
catering to the Asian gamblers interest
and mindset, you see products and
services that are uniquely Asian.
MGS

An online gaming provider provided a new

version of a traditional Chinese game

ASIA iGAMING | My Experience at the Macao Gaming Show 2015

played in a Western type of gambling game which is

really interesting. Because apart from catering to the
Asian taste, they also offer a completely new way of
playing these two traditional casino games that are quite
popular throughout the world. Im still not sure on how
this would be really successful as Asian gamblers really
love baccarat (innovations from this game would create
a bigger impact). Still, the game could gain traction as
being new and more of an alternative game for players to
enjoy if they get a little bored in playing baccarat.

Progressive Slot games are gaining popularity among

players and operators alike which can be found both
online and in land-based casinos. Typically, these
progressive jackpots and prizes are usually found in slot
games. In MGS, I saw a company provide these options
to live table games which has a really high potential and
could be a good following for casino players in land-based
casinos. It gives a new side bet feature for players to
enjoy. Progressive jackpots usually attract players to bet
because of the high payout but of course, we know that
the odds to win these games are extremely difficult.

Nevertheless, I am quite sure a lot of people would enjoy

this concept and it will give more life to land-based casino
patrons.

Overall look for MGS

The Macao Gaming Show 2015 successfully gave visitors

a good understanding of the new products and services
that are being showcased to the rest of the industry
enthusiasts and players, as well as the current issues and
updates that are happening in the gaming industry. As
the interest in the Asian market is growing, so is the
innovation and creativity of the companies, which will be
on full display in the upcoming yearsomething that I
really look forward to.
2015

ASIA iGAMING | My Experience at the Macao Gaming Show 2015

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

LAUNCH OF ORIENTAL GAME, MS. ORIENTAL 2015

2015
The highlight of the evening was, of course, the modelling competition dubbed Ms. Oriental 2015. Twenty-one (21)
of the most stunning and most gorgeous online casino dealers of Oriental Game graced the stage in their flamboyant
outfits and swimwear, much to the delight of the guests who were at the event. Of the twenty-one who participated in
the event, twelve (12) were chosen by the guests via electronic voting. Simply tagged The Top 12, these pretty ladies
came out on stage on their black dealer uniforms. These ladies will be featured in Oriental Games 2016 Calendar.
2121 122016
The event was capped off with the coronation of Ms. Oriental 2015. Through another round of electronic voting by
those in attendance, the 12 calendar girls dwindled
down to the Top 3, one of which was crowned Oriental
Game 2015. The remaining two each received
first-place and second-place finishes, respectively.
201512
32015 Oriental 2

he year 2015 was a very eventful one for Oriental Game (OG). Many things occurred over the course of the year
for the top live dealer solutions provider for the Asian market. All of these helped contribute in raising awareness
about the company as a key player in the online gambling industry. More importantly, these developments were indicative of OG being a company that does not stop short when it comes to innovations, being incessantly committed to
becoming better in providing the best live casino products and management solutions for clients.

The pageantry of the event was what made this event a

colossal success. It surely was a defining moment for
Oriental Game, as the grand launch catapulted the
company to the ever-competitive iGaming industry,
particularly in the live casino sector.

2015 2015
OG

As such, let us take a look back at some of the important highlights that happened throughout 2015 for Oriental Game:

One of the most important highlights in Oriental

Games young history was its grand launch. It was a
significant event that signaled the arrival of a key
industry player in the Asian iGaming market. The
rave-themed event, which happened last July 27,
2015, took place in one of Metro Manilas top clubbing
spots, The Palace Pool Club located in Bonifacio
Global City in Taguig City.

2015

ORIENTAL GAME ADDING NEW FUNCTIONS TO ITS GAMES

Oriental Game started off by introducing new functions as a way of adding to our customers gaming experience. One
of those that were rolled out this year is the squeeze function. Here, players can opt to play baccarat and have the
chance to squeeze the cards, simulating the drama and tension that are commonly felt inside a land-based casino.
Another one is the Super Six function, wherein players can opt to play on a baccarat table under Super Six rules just
by pressing the button on the games interface. Another is the road indicator function; here, the game will indicate
which table(s) have good roads while playing the games, with players having the option to go to the table(s) immediately.

2015-7-27
taguigpalace pool

"

OG looks forward to 2016, one can expect

As
that forging partnerships with numerous key
iGaming industry entities will be a priority.
This is for us to spread awareness of OG as
an iGaming company throughout Asia.

The addition of these functions is a major feat for Oriental Game as it intends to give players a complete gaming
experience. Also, these features have never been so timely, as they were rolled out months before the company
introduced itself to the world of iGaming, as the next highlight below shows.

The grand launch was truly a resounding success.

Notable iGaming industry personalities coming from
various Asian countries attended the event, all of which
were treated to a scintillating dance performance by
award-winning hip-hop dance group The Philippine
All-Stars at the start of the show. The showcasing of
OGs 1-minute corporate video that visually and
creatively captured the companys platform of exciting
casino games marked not just the start of the event,
but also the entry of the OG into the iGaming industry
in Asia.
hip-hop

OG 2016

10

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

ORIENTAL GAME | Oriental Game in 2015: A Year in Review

ORIENTAL GAME | Oriental Game in 2015: A Year in Review

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

11

CHRISTMAS-THEMED GAME LOBBY

The OG game lobby hasnt changed that much over

the course of the year in terms of its look and feel.
But then, the company decided to give the whole
interface a major facelift just in time for the
Christmas season. If you regularly frequent the
game lobby, you can easily notice right now the red
motif all over, which is a surefire mark of OG
celebrating the holidays. Apart from the images of
our stunning online casino dealers in their sexy
Christmas-themed outfits, players can also be able
to listen to popular Christmas songs when they
toggle the background music option. Oriental Game,
as one with the players in spreading joy this season
of giving, also made an effort to supply messages

In line with the Christmas season, Asian live dealer solutions provider
Oriental Game (OG) recently rolled out its themed offering for its players.

Highlights of
Important Gambling
Conventions That
Happened in 2015
2015

-----

for them through artistic and creative loading page banners in every loading page.
OG
OG

OG ALREADY LOOKING FORWARD TO 2016

OG 2016
The year 2015 truly was an eventful year for Oriental
Game, but we as a company will not settle on what we
already have today. Of course, as a company, we embrace
progress, and as we move along in the industry of iGaming,
we will continue to reinvent ourselves through our new
ideas and concepts.

In any certain industry, conventions or conferences are

very important events. These occasions, which either
occur over a span of three days or a week, are usually
filled with industry personalities delivering keynote
speeches, as well as companies exhibiting their respective
brands to attendees and event organizers. Generally,
these gatherings are often held with the aim of generating
interest, wherein people share new ideas and insights
about their specific industry, see something new and
remarkable, and engage in fruitful dialogue regarding
advancements that can transform the industry in one way
or another.
3-7

2015

As the New Year draws near, we can confidently say that

we are still committed to making ourselves better as we
hold on to our primary goal to become the best live dealer
solutions provider in the Asian market. As OG looks
forward to 2016, one can expect that forging partnerships
with numerous key iGaming industry entities will be a priority. This is for us to spread awareness of OG as an iGaming
company throughout Asia. Also, OG is expected to roll out
new and exciting features that will give players a better
gaming experience.

OG 2016
OG

Indeed, the year 2016 is the year that Oriental Game will
reach greater heights as we continue to compete in the
industry.
2016OG

12

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

ORIENTAL GAME | Oriental Game in 2015: A Year in Review

.
Every year, numerous conventions are held across the
globe, most notably in markets where the gambling
industry has greatly flourishedAsia and Europe. Most
of these meet-ups are graced by key industry players
from both the land-based and iGaming (online) gambling
sectors, including operators, suppliers and third-party
payment processors. As such, here is a retrospective
view of gambling conventions that occurred over the
course of 2015, selecting only the most easily recognized
and most popular ones and highlighting remarkable
takeaways from these occasions.

2015

ICE Totally Gaming

The gambling industry, for one, is a particular sector that

definitely knows how to do conventions. Given that the
industrys landscape is a constantly growing and changing
one, it is important for its players, which include
influential magnates and budding entrepreneurs, to
attend these events. It does not matter if they are there
just for exposure or there just to showcase their new line
of products; what is important is that they are there to
keep themselves updated with the latest industry
developments and trends.

ICE Totally Gaming is a very important

business-to-business (B2B) exhibit in the world of
gambling because it serves as a platform for the key
industry players to showcase themselves to potential
investors and decision-makers. A three-day event held in
February of every year, it is considered the biggest
industry event in the world as it brings together the
online and offline gaming sectors, including betting,
bingo, casino, lottery, mobile, online, social, and street
gaming.
ICE totally gaming B2B
23

"

FEATURE | Highlights of Important Gambling Conventions That Happened in 2015

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

13

The latest ICE exhibit happened on February 3 to 5 of

this year and it was held at the ExCeL conference center
in London, England. Of those who took part in the
exhibit, 46 percent of them were game operators, while
25 percent of were suppliers of gaming software and
machines. Others who attended were regulators,
affiliates, and financial institutions, particularly
third-party payment processors. In all, 25,386 attendees
participated in the exhibit, an 8 percent increase from
the previous year. For the first time, the figure broke the
25,000 mark and was the sixth consecutive year of
growth in terms of attendance.
ICE 3-5EXCEL
46% 25%

253868%
25000, 6

Overall, ICE 2015 helped further link the aspects of

land-based and online sectors of gambling. The event
itself served as a perfect venue to analyze how some of
the games within land-based gambling can be a source of
inspiration for those within the realm of iGaming, and
vice versa. With 2016 just around the corner, the next
ICE Totally Gaming event would surely be as fruitful and
successful as this year.

2015ICE

2016 IEC

This years iGA was a rousing success; most of the

attendees were either service providers or gaming
operators. About seven percent were gaming affiliates,
while five percent were game developers. Most of them
were CEOs, presidents, founders, managing directors,
and sales, marketing, and operations managers. In terms
of region, most of the attendees were from the Asian
region, with those from Europe, the Middle East, and
Africa coming in second.

iGaming Asia Conference

The iGaming Asia Conference (iGA) is a three-day

conference and expo for interactive gaming and sports
betting in the Asian region. Focusing on one gambling
sector which is iGaming, it is an event where
professionals from various subsectors of iGaming meet to
discuss new trends and developments within the Asian
region. It also serves as a venue for networking and
establishing new business opportunities.

Next years iGA will happen at the same venue from

March 21 to 23, 2016.
iGA 2016321-23

This years installment occurred on March 17 to 19 at

the Grand Hyatt Macau. It was attended by 336 iGaming
professionals and over 100 operators, making this years
iGA the most attended; a 25 percent growth from the
previous year.
Grand Hyatt 317-19 3
336100
25%
An important highlight of the iGA was the debut of the
Mobile Gaming and Social Casino Asia Day, which
featured topics for discussion such as the gaming
development for tablet gamers, taking advantage of the
exponential boom of social gambling, and other related
subjects. Another highlight was the talk of Indias future
in iGaming and the opportunities abound for the said
market, both local and foreign.

iGA
3

One important takeaway from ICE 2015 was the obvious

dominance of the iGaming sector of the gambling
industry. Everything in the exhibit involved digital
gaming, with game developers aggressively pushing to go
mobile. Another takeaway from this years ICE was that
the trend of digital convergence is finally coming into
fruition. This refers to the shared customer experience
across land-based, digital, and mobile gaming.

This years installment occurred on March 17 to 19 at the

Grand Hyatt Macau. It was attended by 336 iGaming
professionals and over 100 operators, making this years
iGA the most attended; a 25 percent growth from the
previous year.
Grand Hyatt 317-19 3
336100
25%

2015IEC

True enough, there were certain companies at ICE 2015

that were able to showcase numerous product verticals
that call for shared customer experiences. A perfect
example of this is Microgaming showcasing how
wearablesthose that are equipped with virtual reality
technologycan help make digital convergence a reality
within the gaming space. Technology for this may be in
its early stages, but wearables may surely become a great
part of iGaming and gambling in general.

14

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

iGaming Asia Conference

An important highlight of the iGA was the debut of the

Mobile Gaming and Social Casino Asia Day, which
featured topics for discussion such as the gaming
development for tablet gamers, taking advantage of the
exponential boom of social gambling, and other related
subjects. Another highlight was the talk of Indias future
in iGaming and the opportunities abound for the said
market, both local and foreign.

FEATURE | Highlights of Important Gambling Conventions That Happened in 2015

The iGaming Asia Conference (iGA) is a three-day

conference and expo for interactive gaming and sports
betting in the Asian region. Focusing on one gambling
sector which is iGaming, it is an event where
professionals from various subsectors of iGaming meet to
discuss new trends and developments within the Asian
region. It also serves as a venue for networking and
establishing new business opportunities.
iGA
3

This years iGA was a rousing success; most of the

attendees were either service providers or gaming
operators. About seven percent were gaming affiliates,
while five percent were game developers. Most of them
were CEOs, presidents, founders, managing directors,
and sales, marketing, and operations managers. In terms
of region, most of the attendees were from the Asian
region, with those from Europe, the Middle East, and
Africa coming in second.
Next years iGA will happen at the same venue from
March 21 to 23, 2016.

7% 5 %
CEO

iGA 2016321-23

FEATURE | Highlights of Important Gambling Conventions That Happened in 2015

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

15

G2E Asia
;
The Global Gaming Expo Asia (G2E) is the major trade event
for the global gaming and entertainment industry, specifically
catering the Asian market. Organized by the American
Gaming Association (AGA) and Reed Exhibitions, it is
considered the largest in the region which occurs annually in
the month of May at Macau, the heart of gambling in Asia. This
three-day event is where suppliers are able to exhibit their new
products, meet qualified buyers and establish new contacts.
G2E

3

1
2
1 2

Next years G2E Asia event will happen on May 17 to 19
at the same venue.
G2E 517-19

THE GAMBLING INDUSTRY, FOR ONE, IS A PARTICULAR

SECTOR THAT DEFINITELY KNOWS HOW TO DO
CONVENTIONS. GIVEN THAT THE INDUSTRYS
LANDSCAPE IS A CONSTANTLY GROWING AND
CHANGING ONE, IT IS IMPORTANT FOR ITS PLAYERS,
WHICH INCLUDE INFLUENTIAL MAGNATES AND
BUDDING ENTREPRENEURS, TO ATTEND THESE EVENTS.

What Happened in 2015?

2015 ?

This years G2E Asia was the ninth edition and it

happened on May 19 to 21 at the Venetian Macau. It was
a record-setting event, with a total attendance of 9,867
visitors from 79 counties and regions, along with 161
exhibiting companies. Of the said figure, 69 percent of
them came from outside of Macau, a 20 percent increase
from the previous year. It was considered the largest G2E
Asia event to date, with key industry players not just
limited within Asia, but from other parts of the world.
G2E 519-21
9867
7916169%
20%

Overall, the event was complete with seminars and

conferences that helped generate insights and spark
interests about certain outlooks within the land-based
and iGaming sectors of the industry. Takeaways on the
first day of the event include discussions regarding the
prospect of gambling being able to attract the masses
from China through tourism and the factors that make
the Philippines a perfect place to build integrated resorts
(IRs). Then, on the second day of G2E Asia, the focus was
still on talks about certain trends within the gambling
industry, including the effect of industry economics in the
Asian markets and the projections in the realm of social
gaming. Wrapping up the last day of the event was the
discussion about mobile as one sector that will surely make
some loud noise within iGaming and in gambling in general.

16

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

SEO and
iGaming:
SEO
:

What to expect next year

Looking forward to the New Year means looking forward

to new learnings and discoveries. This is true in the world
of gambling and its sectors, especially given the trajectory
that the industry is going. If this years conventions and
exhibitions are an indication of the exponential growth of
land-based gaming, sports betting, iGaming, and other
industry sectors, it is expected that next years editions
will be even more fruitful and more insightful. Indeed,
new ideas and insights will flow freely, from potential
changes in gambling regulations to innovations on all
sectors. These are definitely things that operators, regulators, service providers, and other industry players will
surely welcome and discuss amongst each other. Also,
next years conventions will give rise to opportunities for
industry startups to expand their networks and learn tips
from the best at what they do. Truly, the industry of gambling is not going to stop short of bringing in something
hip and interesting any time soon, especially this coming
2016.

The sector of online gambling, especially iGaming, is

increasing exponentially in popularity nowadays. This
rings true not just in Europe, but also in Asia. Seizing
these markets is definitely a challenge not just for existing companies, but also for startups wanting to take the
plunge in this growing industry sector. Of course, just like
in any other industry, iGaming companies are driving
themselves to be better in terms of marketing themselves
online. As competition in this area is getting stiffer, these
entities are constantly looking for ways to attract online
users, utilizing numerous strategies to stand above all the
others.

SEO " " "

" Google

Some say that SEO in todays time doesnt matter anymore for any business vertical, including online gambling. But then, this statement has proven to be false;
SEO is, more than ever, an important and effective online
marketing tool. Companies and brands within the iGaming sectors, in fact, have made the conscious effort to
employ many SEO methods to help them attain not just
better search engine rankings, but also authority and
online reputation, which is likewise important for any
iGaming brand. This, of course, was very evident in
2015.
SEO
SEO

SEO
2015

2016

FEATURE | Highlights of Important Gambling Conventions That Happened in 2015

One well-known strategy in online marketing that many

digital marketers employ in the iGaming sector is search
engine optimization, also known as SEO. Simply put, it is
the process of affecting a website or a web pages visibility in a search engines organic or natural results.
Generally, if a website successfully ranks high or
frequently appears on the results page in a search engine
like Google, for example, there is a bigger chance that it
will attract more visitors whenever they key in a search
query. More visitors to the website would mean any
business has a better chance of achieving high conversion.

FEATURE | SEO and iGaming: What Happened in 2015

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

17

More emphasis on link building, social

media

In 2015, digital marketing professionals working within

the iGaming sector implemented important SEO
measures in helping their brands rank in Google and in
the other search engines. One of the many methods that
they utilized was link building. It simply refers to the
process of getting external pages to link to a certain page
within a website. It is a tactic that can help increase the
number of high-quality links directed to that website,
which can then increase its likelihood of ranking highly in
the search engines. In turn, doing this helps drive
targeted traffic to that website.
2015
google

seo

seo
2015

Despite this, the year 2015 saw iGaming companies

continuously taking advantage of social media. Aside from
being able to share important and relevant content about
the industry and the iGaming sector to their followers,
these entities use social media to establish ties with others
whom they consider as competition. With the age of social
media already in full swing, it is not surprising that this
trend will continue coming in to next year as companies
embrace something new in the world of iGaming.
2015

Outlook of SEO and online

gambling for 2016
2016 SEO

Going mobile

While there have been online marketers that employ

white hat link building, or those strategies that add
value to end users and strictly follow the guidelines of
search engines like Google, there are still many marketers
in 2015 who continue to employ the oppositeblack hat
link building. iGaming, for the most part, is still plagued
with online gambling-related websites that utilize
aggressive tactics as a way of getting to where they want
in the search engine results. Spamming, a technique that
deliberately manipulates the search engines, is one type of
black hat link building that is common in 2015.

18

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

While many iGaming-related websites religiously follow

search engine guidelines in bettering their chances of
getting high rankings, black hat SEO is still a thing in
most of 2015 unfortunately. There are many online
casino websites choosing to see results in their website
rankings right away, sacrificing not just their profitability
in the long term, but also their reputations. Black hat
SEO strategies are manipulative in nature and usually
disregard the human audience. From flooding the search
engines with ads, ranking through hidden links, to stuffing keywords, webmasters of some online casinos skirt
through the rules set forth by the search engines in an
attempt to see results right away. Yet as the algorithms
of Google as well as of the other search engines continue to become as sophisticated as ever, iGaming-related sites
that do spamming techniques get penalized and/or banned.
2015 SEO
SEO
google

For any iGaming brand, taking advantage of this strategy

enables them not just to achieve the abovementioned, but
also helps them create awareness among their intended
audience. In 2015, many iGaming companies continued
implementing known link building strategies such as
creating fresh, relevant content in their own blog sites,
posting press releases about their new products or
services, and updating their websites design structure
and on-page content.

Black hat SEO still a thing

SEO

The year 2016 will definitely be a year of significant

changes in terms of how business perform well online
through their SEO efforts. The iGaming vertical, specifically, may most likely follow the trends that have been
already introduced this 2015. The Google update that
focuses on the mobile-friendliness of a website alone is
already shaping the future of SEO. In the upcoming
year, iGaming-related business that do online marketing would greatly be impacted once they consider their
intended or targeted audience in their search results,

who are now relying on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to do search queries. What may
never go away, still, is the existence of black hat SEO
practices among many online gambling websites.
Though that is the case in 2016, search engines like
Google wont stop going after those that create spam
and basically disregard SEO guidelines.
2016 SEO
2015google
SEO

googleSEO

Speaking of something new, the world of SEO was

shaken up with a significant development this year, when
Google rolled out its algorithm update that takes into
account the mobile-friendliness of websites. Known as
Mobilegeddon, the accessibility and the
user-friendliness of websites when browsed in mobile
devices such as smartphones and tablets have become an
important factor in ranking websites. Because of this
important Google update, many iGaming companies have
made sure that their websites user interface fits mobile
devices. Since online gambling is currently shifting
towards a more mobile-centric approach, companies saw
that making their websites mobile- or tablet-friendly is
the way to go.
SEO Google

google

FEATURE | SEO and iGaming: What Happened in 2015

FEATURE | SEO and iGaming: What Happened in 2015

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

19

VAT Exemption for

Bitcoin: A Significant
Development in
Europe for Digital
Currencies
Bitcoin

In the previous issue of this e-magazine, we made mention

of a significant progress in terms of Bitcoin in the
European continent. Specifically, the European Banking
Federation or EBF provided recommendations for
policymakersthat is, governments and businesses
across the regionto work together in coming up with
definitive frameworks for Bitcoin regulation. From further
research into Bitcoin technology to continuous evaluations
in rulemaking, the European trade group representing 32
national banking associations and more than 4,500
banks focused on its proposal to policymakers to base the
regulatory framework on anti-money laundering laws that
are already in place in European nations.

there is potential for players to purchase the digital

currency even more knowing that it is tax-free and that
they can use them as betting funds.
ECJ

Bitcoin
ECJ

ECJ
Bitcoin
Bitcoin

28

Bitcoin
EBF
---

324500

The decision by the EU court was an effort to prevent

certain hitches that come with identifying the taxable
amount and the amount of VAT deductible during
monetary transactions. It also noted that not exempting
Bitcoin from VAT would deprive it of part of its effects.
According to Reuters, the top courts decision was in
response to a dispute between a Swedish Bitcoin web
forum moderator named David Hedvqist and the Swedish
tax authorities. Initially, he wanted to start a Bitcoin
exchange service catering to the citizens of his home
country, but he and the authorities disagreed on whether
the exchange service can be VAT-exempted. This led to
the Swedish government officials to elicit help from EUs
top court.

This is truly a step in the right direction for Bitcoin, even

though the EBF was quick to note that its future is unclear
given that it was built as an experiment and that the
trade group has not issued any stance on it. Fortunately
enough, a significant development for the digital currency
in the region occurred not long after the EBF released its
recommendations.

David
Hedvqist

Bitcoin EBF
" "
EBF

Hedvqist, upon learning of the ruling, called it a

sensible one, expressing delight not just for his Bitcoin
exchange service, but also for Bitcoin businesses all over
Europe as well. More importantly, a prominent tax lawyer
remarked that the decision will have greatly impact both
customers and businesses that use Bitcoin as digital
currency.

In the crucial ruling declared two months ago, the

European Court of Justice (ECJ) stated that Bitcoin and
other cryptocurrencies are not subject to value-added tax
(VAT) and that they should be given the same treatment
as the Euro and other currencies. The top court declared
that cryptocurrency transactions, i.e. buying and selling
Bitcoin, are similar to those of other currency, bank
notes, and coins used as legal tender. Under the existing
European Union laws, fiat money transactions across 28
member nations are exempted from VAT.

22

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

Before the decision on the ruling was made, the attorney

pointed out two possibilities. On one hand, excluding
Bitcoin from the VAT exemption would mean customers
will face additional charges for the purchase of the digital
currency. Acquiring Bitcoin would become more
expensive and customers will be left with no choice but to
look for other alternatives outside the region where no
VAT for it applies. On the other hand, imposing a VAT
exemption for Bitcoin would mean the top court
recognizes it as a pure payment method, which would
then create a more positive, more engaging view on the
digital currency in the regional market.
Bitcoin

Certainly, the ECJ chose the latter pointa decision that

would help further boost Europes chances to not just
embrace Bitcoin, but also be at the forefront of
revolutionizing digital payments and innovating
cryptocurrencies. Online gambling operations in the
continent, for one, are all smiles upon learning this
significant development. There are many online casinos
in the region that have integrated Bitcoin into their
existing payment platforms, and with ECJs decision,

A Bitcoin casino operator catering to the European

market believes that the top courts decision to exempt
Bitcoin from VAT validates the digital currency as a
legitimate means of payment in the region. The operator
also went on to say, in a bold manner, that Bitcoin will
be an essential part of the European financial system
within 10 years. For this to happen, existing markets
must be strengthened, as well as have Bitcoin be exposed
further in other jurisdictions. For the casino operator, the
need to educate and inform its players on how to fully
take advantage of Bitcoin and about cryptocurrencies in
general is important; that way, Bitcoin can be recognized
and achieve mainstream success.

10

An all-encompassing regulatory framework is all what it
takes to take Bitcoin to the next level. While Europe is
yet to tackle into that, the ECJs decision is one huge step
to finally maximizing the potential of digital currencies
within online gambling and within other businesses.
Truly, Europe is gaining steam in this regard as it tries to
elevate the Bitcoin to be on par with the Euro and the
other fiat currencies as a pure payment method.
ECJ

Hedvqist

EUROPE iGAMING | Vat Exemption for Bitcoin: A Significant Development in

Europe for Digital Currencies

EUROPE iGAMING | Vat Exemption for Bitcoin: A Significant Development in

Europe for Digital Currencies

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

23

Social Casino
Players Prefer
Mobile Platform
Over Web,
Says Report

e are all well-aware that mobile gaming,

particularly mobile social gaming, is increasing in
popularity nowadays. This is due to the aggressive uptick
in people using smartphones and related devices, as well
as their growing penchant to engage in playing such
games, regardless if they involve real money or not. For
the past five years, this has been the case, from the
emergence of mobile casinos to the various mobile social
gaming titles found in Facebook and other social media
websites. Indeed, it has been estimated that by 2017, the
market for mobile social gaming will become worth more
than $40 billion.

facebook
2017

Optimove

Optimoves study found that 96 percent of players prefer

to play social casino games on a single platform--either
through the Web or through their mobile devices, while

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

1.6
1.4 .
The study showed just how the large majority of the
single-platform players preferred mobile. But what about
the multi-platformers, or those who play social casino
games on both the Web and the mobile? It turns out that
the measly 4 percent are better than single-platformers.
For example, multi-platform players turn into paying
customers with a conversion rate of almost four times as
much as single-platform players, and that they are 20
percent more likely to pay the second time. Even their
average payment is 10 percent higher than
single-platform players.
the remaining percentage play on both the Web and on
mobile devices, as well as on other platforms. Of the 96
percent, more than half of them prefer to play social
casino games on mobile than on the Web65 percent
against 35 percent.

4
20%
10%.

While this study showed that most social casino gamers

stick to mobile, it is also important to magnify those who
play on multiple game platforms. They dont just play on
any platform that is available in front of them, but they
make time to play whenever they can. Indeed, Optimove
remarked that iGaming companies that focus on
single-platform gamers should also consider targeting
gamers who play on multiple platforms through
incentives or marketing campaigns.

Optimove

OF THE 96 PERCENT, MORE THAN

HALF OF THEM PREFER TO PLAY
SOCIAL CASINO GAMES ON MOBILE
THAN ON THE WEB65 PERCENT
AGAINST 35 PERCENT.

65%35%

Optimove 96%

65%35%
Apart from the information above, Optimove also found
that mobile social casino players become paying
customers and continue being so on an early and
frequent basis. Also, they play games every so often. To
better understand this, here are
the other metrics used in the
research study:
Optimove

Because of the positive

outlook on this aspect of
mobile gaming and the iGaming industry, Israel-based
retention automation platform Optimov e conducted a
study that would determine the players preference when
they play social casino games. Data from a dozen social
casino games over a 12-month period were collected and
analyzed as part of the companys research, and they
showed interesting results.

24

In terms of frequency of play, mobile gamers play

1.6 times more gameplay days than their Web
counterparts, who have 6.7 gameplay days.
When it comes to game sessions, mobile gamers play
1.4 times in every playing day than Web gamers.

Mobile players become paying customers almost

twice as fast as those playing on the Web, with an
average time of 30 days. Web players, on average,
become paying customers after 52 days. Also,
mobile players pay the second time around on an
average of 18 days, against 27 days for Web
players. When it comes to payment frequency,
mobile gamers make deposits every 10 days as
opposed to 14 days for Web gamers.
30
52 ,
1827
10
14

EUROPE iGAMING | Social Casino Player Prefer Mobile Platform Over Web, Says Report

EUROPE iGAMING | Social Casino Player Prefer Mobile Platform Over Web, Says Report

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

25

Alipay Approved
for Use in Macau;
Casinos Unlikely
to Offer Online
Payment Service

Founded in 2004, Alipay, an affiliate of Alibaba Group, is

considered the largest third-party online payment solution
in the world today, having more than 550 million users
and is in-charge of over eight-and-a-half million online
transactions every day reaching above CNY 2 billion (Chinese yuan). This highly-popular online payment service is
only known to cater to those in the mainland. But a recent
development last month saw the online payment service
make its way to one of Chinas special administrative
regions.
2004 Alibaba
5.5850
20

In late November, the Monetary Authority of Macau confirmed that Alipay is now allowed to operate in the city
after the company collaborated with a locally authorized
institution. According to the Monetary Authority, the cooperation between the two institutions has been duly
approved and does not violate any regulations in Macau.
Upon launch of such services, it is legal for residents or
institutions in Macau to use Alipay accounts for payments. Right now, at least 107 stores in the city are
offering the third-payment service, with more than 51

26

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

Another thing that Mr. Govertsen mentioned about the

emergence of Alipay in Macau is the fact that using this as
an online payment service could pose positive longer-term implications for the citys gaming industry. Specifically, he speculated that the mass gambling market can
use it as a substitute to UnionPay when obtaining cash.
Govertsen

local brands using the providers QR code payment service.

10751

Union Gaming Securities Asia Ltd. analyst Grant Govertsen believes that the merchants that have the online payment service are mainly restaurants and cafes; although
Macaus largest department store and some electronics
retailers are also on board. He noted that pawnshops
have yet to offer Alipay, adding that the online payment
service may explore the possibility later on if any further
UnionPay restrictions are put into place.

It can be remembered that the previous issue of this

e-magazine showed an article about Chinas announcement
to limit yearly overseas cash withdrawals for the UnionPay
service. Between the period of October and the last day of
December, the total limit was set to CNY 50,000, and
come January 1, 2016 onwards, the limit will be CNY
100,000. But for comparisons sake, Alipays transaction
limits for the one-touch Alipay Express method is only
limited to CNY 5,000 per transaction, with a monthly
cumulative total of CNY 50,000. Indeed, the online payment service is presently being used as an online or small
retail purchasing tool.
1012
5201611
10
50005

While Union Gaming surmised that Alipay in Macau could

have long-term implications in the gaming industry, it said
that it is highly unlikely for casino operators to accept the
online payment service. Mr.Govertsen said that it is not

expecting them to offer Alipay Wallet in-person payments

on casino floors given how contentious that would benot
to mention potential legal ramifications. Despite that, he
added that Alipay will be added as a payment option for
non-gaming facilities inside integrated casinos, from hotel
rooms, entertainment venues, restaurants, and the like.

Govertsen

grant Govertsen

THIRD-PARTY PAYMENTS/CRYPTOCURRENCIES | Alipay Approved for Use in Macau; Casinos

Unlikely to Offer Online Payment Service

THIRD-PARTY PAYMENTS/CRYPTOCURRENCIES | Alipay Approved for Use in Macau; Casinos

Unlikely to Offer Online Payment Service

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

27

FEATURE
A Look at the Different Christmas Traditions Across East,
Southeast Asia

This particular issue of The Monthly Bet wont be complete without a feature that talks about Christmas season. Here is an
interesting article that focuses mainly on the Christmas celebrations around Asia, specifically in the East and Southeast regions
of the continent.

For the most part, the celebration of Christmas in the East and Southeast Asian regions is mainly secular. Many of the
countries in these regions, though non-Christian, are able to celebrate Christmas, so much so that some of them consider it as a public holiday. Meanwhile, Christian Asian countries like the Philippines, as well as a small percentage of
Christians living in mostly non-Christian nations, celebrate Christmas with fervent religiosity wherein they attend
church services. Truly, Christmas in this side of the continent has two different viewpoints; one hinging on the customary and the religious, and the other tied to being materialistic.

Heres a look at the different Christmas traditions across the East and Southeast Asian regions:

East Asia
China

The mainland does not consider December 25 as a holiday;

however, it is otherwise a public holiday in both Hong Kong
and Macau mainly because these two special administrative
regions are former colonies of Western powers known for
their relatively small Christian cultural heritage.
12-25

Japan

With the exception of Christians who account for two

percent of the whole population, the Japanese dont
celebrate Christmas in a religious sense. It may not be a
national holiday, but commercialism and Western influence allowed the Japanese to celebrate the holidays by
giving gifts and exchanging cards, with the aim of spreading love and happiness. Christmas lights illuminate
streets, while Christmas trees are on fully display inside
homes and malls.

A measly one percent of Chinese who consider themselves

Christians privately observe Christmas religiously. Other
citizens, who dont consider themselves as Christians,
take part in the festivities that closely resembles the
holidays. Influenced by the West, the non-Christian citizens
send cards to each other, exchange gifts, and hang stockings.
Elements of Christmas, from installing bright dancing
lights, erecting Christmas trees, to displaying figures of Santa
Claus and white snowmen, are so much widespread inside
urban centers like malls and retail markets.
1%

A growing tradition during Christmas Eve is giving apples

wrapped in colored paper. This is so because the Mandarin
word for apple and Christmas Eve (quiet or silent
night) are apparently the same. Also, the Chinese have
their own version of Santa Claus, called the Old
Christmas Man. He is depicted differently there; if in the
West, he has his elves, in China, he has his sisters who
are young women dressed as elves.

20%

The Japanese Christmas Eve is more like Valentines Day.

A romantic day for couples, it is a time where they spend
time together and swap gifts. Around Christmas time,
parties are held, with children taking part in games and
other fun activities. They also partake in eating Christmas
cakes; sponge cakes topped with whipped cream and
strawberries and decorated with trees, flowers, and Santa
Claus figures. They also have their own version of Santa
Claus, called the Hoteiosho the gift bringer. Their New
Years celebration, which is called o shogatsu, is similar
to Christmas in the West. Happening from December 31
to January 4, it is a very busy timefamilies get together,
eat special meals, pray, and send greeting cards.

Hoteiosho "
31 4

28

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

Christmas | A Look at the Different Christmas Traditions Across East, Southeast Asia

Christmas | A Look at the Different Christmas Traditions Across East, Southeast Asia

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

29

South Korea

Southeast Asia

Indonesia

Christians in South Korea make

up 25 to 30 percent of the total
population, which makes
Christmas a celebrated religious
holiday. It is even considered a
public holiday, which means that
some citizens can have a day off
from work or school. Christians,
as well as non-Christians, flock
churches there on December 25.

A predominantly Muslim country, Indonesia has a considerably large Christian populationabout 10 percent of
the total population. Christmas, which they call Natal,
is a public holiday for around 16.5 million Christians;
about 7 million of which are Roman Catholics.
10%
" Natal "
700

25-30%

.
Western influence is likewise alive
in this part of East Asia, with
Christmas lights brightening up South Korean cities and districts and malls filled with attractive decorations.
Christmas trees adorn the living rooms of residential areas. Whats unique about Christmas in South Korea is the fact
that money, not material objects, is the most common present exchanged with friends and loved ones. Also, the
Korean Santa Claus does not wear red suit, but a blue one. He is called Santa Haraboji, or Santa Grandfather.

MERRY CHRISTMAS IN DIFFERENT LANGUAGES

Within areas where the majority are Christians, Christmas
is filled with festivities and local foods. Church services
occur on the 24th and 25th of December, with people
attending Mass creating Nativity scenes and use them as
part of the Nativity drama performance. In cities, shopping malls, offices, certain roads, and other commercial
areas are decorated with twinkling Christmas lights and
beautifully ornamented Christmas trees. Because the
Dutch ruled Indonesia over a long period of time, the
Christians there call their Santa Claus Sinterklass,
derived from the Dutch word Sinterklaas.

(Meri Kurisumasu)

(Jeulgaeun krismas doeseyo)
SELAMAT NATAL

One of the Asian nations with the largest concentration of

Catholics considers Christmas as the biggest and most
widely celebrated holidays on the calendar. In fact, the
unofficial start of the holidays begins as early as September, earning the Philippines a distinction as having the
worlds longest Christmas season.

Christmas in the Philippines is influenced by the Spanish,

the islands colonizers for more than 300 years. With
religion a big part of the lives of the Filipinos, tradition
holds that every December, Catholics are to attend
Masses at early dawn for nine consecutive days. From
December 16 to 24, they take part on what is called
Misa de Gallo, or Roosters Mass in the traditional
Spanish. Also known as Simbang Gabi in the Filipino
language, it is believed that attending Masses for nine
straight days may help grant their requests or wishes.
300
9
16-24 Misa
de Gallo " Simbang
Gabi"

, Santa Haraboji
Santa Grandfather.

(Sheng Dan Kuai Le)

Philippines

Western influences, such as installing Christmas lights

and trees and Santa Claus figures inside residences and
commercial establishments, as well as are exchanging
cards and singing Christmas carols, are commonplace in
the country during the season. One decoration used
during this time that is uniquely Filipino is the parol.
With bamboo strips as the frame and colored Japanese
paper covering it, it is a lantern that symbolizes the Star
of Bethlehem which guided the Three Wise Men.

24 25

" Sinterklass" Sinterklaas

MALIGAYANG PASKO
CHU MG GIAG SINH

A growing tradition during Christmas Eve is giving apples

Indonesian Christians also partake of both traditional and
Christmas treats. Cookies are a popular food in this
season of giving, where nastar or a type of pineapple
tart, kastengel or cheese cookies, and putri salju or
butter cookie covered with sugar and cheese are usually
served.

28

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

Christmas | A Look at the Different Christmas Traditions Across East, Southeast Asia

Christmas | A Look at the Different Christmas Traditions Across East, Southeast Asia

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

29

Vietnam

Though not a national holiday, Christmas season in Vietnam is increasing in popularity. In fact, Christmas Eve is
deemed a more important day than Christmas Day itself.
In Ho Chi Minh City, for example, people, especially the
young ones, like to go to the city center where a Catholic
cathedral is located. The streets get crowded during this
time, and within the city, vehicles are not allowed to pass
for the whole night.

During Christmas Eve, people go to church in the evening

to hear Mass. After which, families gather inside their
homes to take part in the midnight feast called the
Noche Buena. Roasted pig, ham, fruit salad, rice cakes
and other sweets, and different drinks are usually found
in every Filipino familys table.

Noche Buena

The celebration of Christmas in the Philippines doesnt

end there. Filipinos still have the New Years Eve, where
families gather around the table for the Media Noche or
midnight meal that symbolizes their hopes for a prosperous
New Year. Filipinos greet the New Year with a bang, with
firecrackers being lit to produce loud noises in the belief
that doing so drives away bad vibes. Other beliefs during
the New Year include wearing clothing with circles
imprinted on it, as well as displaying circular fruits on the
table. Christmas in the Philippines officially ends on
January 6, which is the Feast of the Epiphany.

Noche"

6
midnight meal that symbolizes their hopes for a prosperous
New Year. Filipinos greet the New Year with a bang, with
firecrackers being lit to produce loud noises in the belief
that doing so drives away bad vibes. Other beliefs during
the New Year include wearing clothing with circles
imprinted on it, as well as displaying circular fruits on the
table. Christmas in the Philippines officially ends on
January 6, which is the Feast of the Epiphany.

Noche"

Typically, the Vietnamese take pictures in front of big

hotels and department stores that are adorned with
Christmas decorations. Restaurants are almost always
filled with people who want to enjoy the night with a
hearty snack. Shops are open for those who want to look
around for things to buy. Truly, the Christmas season
there has a tremendous commercial appeal.

Despite this, Christmas, especially for Vietnamese Catholics, are solemnly observed. Comprising only a small
percentage of the countrys population, they attend Midnight Mass services and observe Christmas traditions
chiefly influenced by the French. Catholic churches in
Vietnam, for one, greet churchgoers with their Nativity
scenes. During the season, people like to gift chocolate
cakes that shape like a log, called the buche de Noel.

buche de Noel
Christmas around East and Southeast Asia is truly one of
a kind. On one hand, the deep influence of the West paved
the way for the holiday season in this side of the world to
be commercialized. On the other hand, the solemnity of
the observance, which is all about the celebration of the
birth of Jesus Christ, compels people of the Christian faith
to spiritually connect and reflect on the event.

Traditions surely vary from one nation to another, but

a common theme found here is that people in this region,
regardless if they are Christian or otherwise, regard the
Christmas season as a time to bring joy to others and
relish the company of friends and family.

30

The Monthly Bet

Dec 2015

Christmas | A Look at the Different Christmas Traditions Across East, Southeast Asia