Melco Resorts (Philippines) Foundation Corporation (MRP Foundation), the philanthropic arm of City of Dreams Manila operator Melco Resorts and Entertainment (Philippines) Corporation, has officially handed over the newly rehabilitated Sunshine Park to the Baguio City local government. The handover ceremony, led by Baguio City mayor Benjamin Magalong and MRP Foundation vice-president Armin Antonio B Raquel Santos, featured student performers from the University of the Cordilleras, underscoring the park's ties to the city's academic and creative communities.
Integrated Resort Investment in Provincial Destinations
The PHP 20-million rehabilitation initiative marks a notable shift among premium integrated resort operators, who are increasingly directing capital toward environmental and cultural preservation outside Metro Manila. This northern venture aligns with MRP Foundation's broader social impact strategy, developed in coordination with the Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Earlier this year, the foundation allocated PHP 50 million to transform Caloocan City's People's Park into a green space, and PHP 9.9 million for security assets donated to the PNP National Capital Region Police Office.
Rather than erasing the site's heritage, the redevelopment preserved historical elements such as the original stage, ramp, and drop-off zones. Upgrades focused on modern pathways, outdoor calisthenics equipment, integrated picnic facilities, and refined landscaping. A bespoke public art installation, Language of Photography by local artist Clinton Aniversario, enhances the park's creative footprint.
According to MRP president Clarence Chung: "Our support for the rehabilitation of Sunshine Park, in collaboration with PAGCOR, reflects MRP Foundation’s commitment to creating lasting value through public spaces that strengthen communities."
Strategically located near the University of the Philippines Baguio and close to transport, commerce, and civic hubs, Sunshine Park serves as a vital green lung for tourists, students, and residents. The project was executed under the Baguio City Government's Adopt-a-Park programme, following years of structural observations and multi-stakeholder consultations. Baguio City Environment and Parks Management Office head Rhenan Diwas noted that the design was guided by an "education beyond walls" ethos, ensuring the space supports multi-generational learning and creative expression.
Mayor Magalong praised the initiative as a benchmark for public-private partnerships that align with Baguio's sustainability objectives, including the forthcoming rehabilitation of neighbouring Tree Park. This development echoes broader trends in destination stewardship, similar to how Andrew Drummond Returns to Steer Kandooma Maldives Through IHG Exit and Rebrand highlights resort-level commitment to local communities.
For travel professionals, this project demonstrates how integrated resort operators can extend their social impact beyond casino floors and hotel properties, investing in public infrastructure that enhances destination appeal. Such initiatives can influence travel agent recommendations and tour operator itineraries, particularly for groups seeking cultural and educational experiences. The park's proximity to academic institutions also positions it as a potential venue for MICE events, echoing the Lions International Convention Returns to Hong Kong for Third Time, Boosting MICE Sector.
As Baguio continues to position itself as a sustainable tourism destination, partnerships like this one between MRP Foundation and the local government set a precedent for how gaming and hospitality companies can contribute to urban renewal. The PHP 20-million investment, while modest compared to the scale of integrated resort revenues, signals a strategic pivot toward long-term destination stewardship that benefits both residents and visitors.
