Manila has been one of the fastest growing poker hubs in the Asia Pacific region having hosted a number of major international tournaments in recent years. Poker clubs have sprung up left and right in the last decade with the local poker community growing alongside it. A steady stream of daily and monthly tournaments always seemed to be a hit back when Covid-19 was not an issue. However, with the virus remaining an imminent threat in the capital, local players have had to wait for its most popular poker room to finally reopen its doors to the public.
Joining the PokerStars Live poker room in Okada Manila, the Metro Card Club located in the Ortigas Center has at long last announced its reopening after an 11-month temporary shutdown. While further details are yet to be known, the largest poker room in the metro will once again welcome its visitors at 5pm sharp later today.
Strict precautions such as wearing of face masks while inside the establishment and regulated disinfection practices will be implemented to ensure overall safety of both guests and staff. Proper social distancing measures will also be carried out, limiting the number of players per table to a maximum of six.
The post made yesterday on the Club’s official Facebook account has so far received positive feedback from more than 300 followers. Over 80 profiles have shared their excitement regarding the scheduled opening with a crowd possibly brewing as the weekend draws near.
While the move is very much welcomed by the local poker community, it is essential that public health and safety be prioritized to ensure a continuous recovery for live poker in the country. A big step forward for the industry, all are hoping that the reopening will lead to the normalcy it ultimately once had.
