Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment Inc., operator of Okada Manila, announced a leadership transition as President and COO Byron Yip concludes his seven-year tenure in September. Nobuki Sato, Senior Executive Officer and CFO of Universal Entertainment Corporation, will assume the role of President and COO effective September 15, 2025.
Yip will continue overseeing daily operations and supporting the transition through September. Sato, who has served on TRLEI’s Board of Directors since March 2023, brings over 20 years of leadership experience in hospitality, finance, and strategic operations.
“Byron Yip’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing Okada Manila as a leading destination in the region, exemplified by our achievement of the Forbes 5-Star rating—the largest Forbes 5-star Integrated Resort in the Philippines to receive this distinction for the sixth consecutive year,” said Tomohiro Okada, Representative Director and President of Universal Entertainment Corporation.
Under Yip’s leadership, Okada Manila maintained its Forbes 5-star status for six consecutive years while executing key expansion initiatives. The integrated resort spans 30 hectares and features the Philippines’ largest gaming floor, over 40 dining venues, 1,001 accommodations, and attractions including The Fountain water choreography show and Cove Manila indoor beach club.
Okada expressed confidence that Sato’s proven expertise in operational and financial management will guide the resort into its next phase of strategic growth and innovation. The leadership transition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and long-term value creation.
The resort combines Filipino hospitality with Japanese precision, offering gaming, entertainment, dining, wellness facilities including the Forbes 5-star-rated The Retreat Spa, and state-of-the-art MICE facilities for business travelers. Digital innovations include the Okada Online Casino and mobile app for enhanced guest experiences.
