Hong Kong-listed casino operator Landing International Development Ltd. (LIDL) may have to wait five more years before it starts its casino operations in Manila.

State-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) confirmed on Thursday that it recently granted LIDL a provisional license for the construction and operation of its $1.5 billion integrated resort in Manila.

However, PAGCOR said that LIDL may only start its casino operations by March 2022 due to a standing 5-year moratorium on new casinos in the state capital. The existing integrated resorts in Manila had requested a casino moratorium in 2017 to allow the market the space to mature.

There are about 18 casinos in Metro Manila, 3 of which are operated and owned by PAGCOR.