The Cebu City Council (CCC) has backed the bid of Philippine property developer Universal Hotels and Resorts Inc. (UHRI) to construct an integrated resort outside Manila.

Cebu Daily News reported that by a 7-5 vote, the CCC has endorsed UHRI’s application for a casino license before the state-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

UHRI reportedly planned to turn the 39,854-square-meter Kawit Island, which was originally reserved for quarantine services and maritime hospital of DOH, into a world-class integrated resort that 1000-bed hotel, casino, convention center and restaurants, among others.

But in order for the project to move forward, UHRI needed to seek the blessing of the CCC and, afterwards, PAGCOR.