GameZone Tour recognizes Alas' skills and purpose with a redesigned version

The GameZone Tour: Tongits Plus Champions Cup Season 4 golden trophy

Season after season, GameZone has reached new heights. Raising the stakes, having more fun, providing entertainment for the greater good, and maintaining its competitive spirit while inspiring others in the playing community. 

On March 8, GameZone wrapped up its new and enhanced tournament series, the GameZone Tour: Tongits Plus Champions Cup Season 4, at the PNB Events Hall in Pasay City. The tournament's offline stages began on March 5, with the top 36 players vying to achieve the top nine and advance to the semifinals.

The season's prize pool was ₱10 million, with the coveted golden trophy at stake. The game progressed from 36 participants to only three of the greatest players who controlled their individual tables: Ahrold Tubig, Gina Bengco, and Pilar Fernandez.

The final match was established after the top three finalists competed in a series of rigorous rounds, with Tubig leading in the first half, ahead of Bengco and Fernandez. The competition highlighted each player's distinct skills and knowledge of the game as they competed.

During the halftime break, players were asked about their overall experience and game plan for the second half of the final. Tubig displayed sportsmanship by wishing his fellow competitors success and mentioning that he had been playing on the GameZone app for two years.

Bengco, who came in second place, claimed she has been using the GameZone app for three years. Fernandez, the oldest of the three, said she's been playing the game using standard playing cards since she was a teenager. She also provided a motivational message for those interested in participating in the tournament: "Try and try until you succeed."

(L-R) President of Gamemaster Integrated Inc., Jasper Vicencio, together with Pilar Fernandez, 
Gina Bengco, and Ahrold Tubig

Exciting new gameplay was also introduced to the entire GameZone experience, including the Glory Ring Tournament, which runs alongside the main game. It featured 60 players competing for the golden ring and reward, with Renato Flores winning in his tournament debut.

The Games and Amusement Board was present at the event, promoting its Responsible Gaming message while also supporting the contest. 

Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of Gamemaster Integrated Inc, was also present for the Gamemaster Talks section, where he discussed how DigiPlus and GameZone are leading the market in innovation and the production of immersive experiences for their users.

He also stated that the company has contributed to the creation of a safe playing environment for its players by implementing strong KYC (know your customer) checks, self-exclusion, and reminders about responsible gaming.

Celebrities Awra Briguela, Yskaela Fujimoto, and Christine Samson contributed to the fun with a reason by participating in a celebrity match for a cause presented by comedian and actress Negi. Their prizes were donated to DigiPlus Foundation's FutureSmart Scholars, LoveYourself Inc., and Friends of Saint Mary MacKillop, Inc.

A celebrity match for a cause during the GameZone Tour

The funds were delivered by Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of the DigiPlus Foundation. It was DigiPlus and GameZone's approach of broadening their efforts to assist diverse organizations in accordance with their particular focus and aims.

As the second half of the match progressed, the audience cheered for their preferred player to win, each with their own family and friends present. At the same time, other people broadcast the GameZone Tour on social media.

Tubig won the game with 23,300 points, taking home the championship trophy and ₱5 million grand prize. Bengco finished second with 22,500 points and ₱1 million, followed by fan favorite Pilar Fernandez in third with 14,200 points and ₱500,000.

The finalists of GameZone Tour: Tongits Plus Champions Cup Season 4

In addition to the competition, the GameZone Tour experience added a new mood with its rebranding, which included side games and booths that engaged guests by enticing them to participate for prizes. GameZone collaborated with the DigiPlus Foundation to deliver community-driven initiatives throughout the day.

While the battle began, a champion was also introduced: global boxing champion and icon Manny Pacquiao has joined GameZone as its newest brand ambassador, bringing with him the Ikaw ang Alas campaign, which will help the tournament's players become GameZone Tour 2026 champions.

Manny Pacquiao announced as GameZone’s newest brand ambassador

Everyone got to experience the genuine GameZone as their abilities improved during the event. The GameZone Tour: Tongits Plus Champions Cup will run throughout the year, with more games and more fun added each season to amuse both new and seasoned fans in the community.

About DigiPlus

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced the leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging interactive gaming and sports entertainment experiences. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come. For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

BingoPlus sets the stage ablaze with the ultimate music fest to unite sports and entertainment

Beyond golf and entertainment, the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus, empowered Philippine sports and athletes.

The country's biggest digital entertainment platform is back at it, with the grandest music festival of the year, "Swing for Filipino Sports Dream" sponsored by BingoPlus, wrapping up on October 25, 2025 at the ASEANA City Open Grounds.

The festival's star-studded lineup ignited tremendous and electric energy, as both worldwide and local giants took the stage and pumped up the crowd. Norwegian DJ Alan Walker and Filipino icon Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas headlined the event, raising the energy level to new heights.

Black Eyed Peas’ Apl.de.Ap performing their popular song ‘Bebot’

Bamboo, Parokya ni Edgar, Urbandub, Lily (formerly known as Callalily), and Sandwich joined the schedule, among thrilling sets from EDM artists DJ Kiara, Arthur Tan, Hoest, and more. The amazing stage setup, dynamic lighting, and breathtaking pyrotechnics made the moment even more memorable.

During the music festival press conference, media invitees got the opportunity to interview the featured acts. Guest singers thanked BingoPlus for helping bring the International Series to the country. They also expressed their enthusiasm for participating at such a prominent occasion.

“What I hope everyone would go home with is a sense of joy in their time going to the festival — not just for my part but for others in the line-up. I think the most important thing for me is that they go home feeling good.” ~Alan Walker

Furthermore, Geir Michalsen, Deputy Head of Mission at the Norwegian Embassy in Manila, gave an enthusiastic introduction, emphasizing Norway's rich culture and scenic places while urging stronger tourist and cultural connections between Norway and the Philippines. He then prepared the audience for the performance of his fellow Norwegian, DJ Alan Walker.

Mr. Jasper Vicencio answering questions from the media

Likewise, Mr. Jasper Vicencio, president of AB Leisure Exponent Inc., expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support for the event. 

“The International Series Philippines marks a monumental and historic milestone for Philippine sports and the golf community, reminding us that we are capable of hosting such a prestigious tournament. As we conclude this milestone event, marked by such a grand and popular tournament, we want the ISP experience to end in true BingoPlus fashion — fun, entertaining, and memorable.” ~Mr. Jasper Vicencio, President of BingoPlus

Moreover, attendees were treated to delightful merchandise, engaging booths from BingoPlus, the BingoPlus Foundation, ArenaPlus and GameZone, and free snacks, plus a raffle with a prize pool of five million pesos (₱5,000,000) in cash. Mr. Vicencio led the raffle draw, announcing the lucky winners. 100 participants took home ten thousand pesos (₱10,000) each, while four became instant millionaires, winning one million pesos (₱1,000,000) apiece.

(L-R): PSC Official Representative; Mr. Rahul Singh, Head of the International Series; Mr. Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO of the Asian Tour; Mr. Tommy Hu, Chief Executive Officer of DigiPlus; Hosts Anjo Pertierra and Shaira Diaz

The event's highlight was the contribution handover, where the International Series Philippines, BingoPlus, and its social development arm, the BingoPlus Foundation, handed over ₱8,000,000 to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).  This effort promotes the organization's objective of uplifting and empowering local sports, as well as advancing Filipino ability and talent to international prominence.

The music festival culminated in an amazing night, showcasing the perfect blend of sports and entertainment, bringing together worldwide and domestic performers on stage.  BingoPlus and the International Series Philippines reiterated their commitment to inspiring, empowering, and elevating Filipino talent by hosting this event, demonstrating that local pride can genuinely shine anywhere.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates GameZone with more to come. For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

GameZone Donates ₱1 Million for various Charity

GameZone Merchandise and Models

GameZone, one of the Philippines' leading PVP entertainment platforms, has once again demonstrated that enjoyment can coexist with purpose.  During the "Swing for Filipino Sports Dream" Music Festival, GameZone partnered with the BingoPlus Foundation and gave ₱1 million to promote various philanthropic efforts nationwide.

This collaboration exemplifies GameZone's philosophy of building Ganda via giving—turning pleasure and competition into a force for good.  The ₱1 million donation will support projects that improve communities and help Filipinos in need, including education, youth care, and community development.

Awarding of Shared Contribution of  BingoPlus and GameZone From left to right (Jasper Vicencio, Board of trustees member of BingoPlus Foundation, Sisidlan workers, Angela Camin-Wineke, BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director)

GameZone promoted several issues through its online channels, raising awareness and encouraging public participation.  From poignant remarks exchanged online to the enthusiasm of those who visited the Aseana Music Festival, which featured performances by Alan Walker, Apl.de.Ap, Bamboo, and many others, the campaign encouraged solidarity and the spirit of bayanihan in Filipino gamers and music enthusiasts alike.

The event concluded in a night of celebration, representing months of planning, collaboration, and compassion—proof that true success comes not only from accomplishment but also from giving back.

BingoPlus Foundation continues its objective to reach neglected communities, while GameZone strengthens its commitment to collaborating with groups who share a same purpose of assisting people.  Together, both organizations demonstrate that beauty is not just found in the games we play, but also in the lives we touch.

GameZone Models at the booth

As GameZone proudly carries its banner of “Ganda ng GameZone,” it reminds everyone that being ma-Ganda means being responsible, generous, and compassionate—using every opportunity to create a positive impact on the Filipino people.

At GameZone, we believe gaming should always be fun, fair, and responsible. We encourage our community to play for enjoyment, not as a source of income. Gambling is not an acceptable way of livelihood, and it does not solve financial problems. To learn more about GameZone’s initiatives, visit gzone.ph. The right to interpret this activity belongs to GameZone.

DigiPlus strengthens player protection with surety bond for BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone

DigiPlus Interactive Corp., the country's leading provider of digital entertainment, including BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, today announced a historic alliance with Philippine First Insurance Co.  Inc. (PhilFirst), the nation's first domestic insurance provider.  They collaborated to create the Philippines' first surety bond program for online gaming participants, setting a new standard for player protection.  The program takes effect immediately.

For players, this offers additional peace of mind every time they log in, as long as their eKYC (electronic Know-Your-Customer) information is up to current and they continue to follow the platform's rules.  Whether it's a novice gamer or a die-hard fan celebrating a big victory, they can enjoy BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone knowing their wallets and balances are even more secure.

This project provides qualifying participants with an additional financial safety.  The surety bond covers up to ₱1 million in player balances without requiring customers to obtain a separate coverage.

“DigiPlus is proud to be the first in the industry to roll out this level of consumer protection. We are committed to putting our players first. With this surety bond, they can play confidently on BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, knowing that their funds are safeguarded.” ~Eusebio H. Tanco, DigiPlus Chairman

This latest action reinforces DigiPlus' commitment to dependable client service and protection by adding the surety bond to its 24/7 customer assistance and 130+ physical BingoPlus locations countrywide, which already serve as handy and trusted venues for players.

With the inclusion of the surety bond, DigiPlus continues to advance industry standards, providing not just exciting and innovative gaming offers but also a stronger assurance of confidence, security, and peace of mind to its customers.

About DigiPlus Interactive Corp.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

About PhilFirst

PhilFirst Insurance is the first Filipino domestic insurance company in the Philippines, offering a wide array of non-life insurance coverage to individuals and corporations.

Established in 1906, PhilFirst provides insurance services for homes, motor vehicles, personal accidents, travel, liability, marine, engineering, and bonds. The Company is dedicated to delivering excellent and personalized service to ensure customer satisfaction while addressing the needs of its partners, brokers, agents, and stakeholders.

We maintain a team of highly competent and motivated employees who adhere to our corporate values of excellence, integrity, creativity, innovation, and social responsibility.

At PhilFirst, we’re proud to bring our 119 years of insurance expertise into the digital entertainment space through this groundbreaking partnership with DigiPlus. Protecting the hard-earned funds of BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone players reflects our promise to keep evolving with the market while staying true to our core mission: giving Filipinos peace of mind so they can fully enjoy life’s opportunities. This surety bond is more than a product – it’s proof that PhilFirst is ready to safeguard customers wherever innovation takes them.

GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC): Summer Showdown Champion

Casayuran holding his championship mock-check and trophy for GTCC: Summer Showdown.

Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, 62, of Quezon Province, broke down in tears after winning the historic GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC): Summer Showdown championship title and the grand prize of 5 million pesos during the 5-day online-to-onground Tongits tournament from June 12 to 15 in Makati City.

Benigno De Guzman Casayuran kissing his GTCC: Summer Showdown championship trophy.

The occasion was further made more thrilling by local artists' performances and sweets displayed in the studio, all of which were devoted to the players.

Head-to-head smackdown in GTCC: Summer Showdown

With a prize pool of 10 million pesos, 93 elite Tongits players from all around the country competed for the season title and the chance to win 5 million pesos. 

Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of Gamemaster Integrated Inc., game provider of GameZone, delivering his message for the GTCC: Summer Showdown.

Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of Gamemaster Integrated Inc., explained in his introductory remarks how the competition became a watershed point in the Filipino Tongits game scene.

“Just last year, we launched the Tongits Champion Cup. This was a pioneering moment, the very first esports-style tournament for the traditional card game of Tongits in the Philippines. It marked a significant milestone, bringing a new level of competition and excitement to the traditional Filipino card game. Now, in 2025, we have expanded and rebranded, and we proudly present GTCC. This is more than just a tournament.” ~Mr. Rafael Jasper Vicencio, President of Gamemaster Integrated Inc.,

The competition began with the Tongits Free Multi-Table competition, which took place on the GameZone app from April 25 to May 16.

The five-day competition began with competitors randomly divided into three brackets.  Participants were rated according to the total points earned after three 20-round games.  On Day 2, the top players moved to the promotional round, where they competed in upper and lower bracket groupings.

Nine semi-finalist gracing the stage of GTCC: Summer Showdown.

On Day 3, qualifying players were randomly assigned to new groups.  The top performances from the previous round advanced to the upper bracket, while the rest of the players entered the lower bracket.  Players from both brackets competed for top spots, with just five from the upper bracket and four from the lower bracket making it to the semi-finals.  The action heated up as the nine semi-finalists faced off in the group stage during a 60-round game on Day 4.

Finalist Ryan Dacalos with his lucky coin on his forehead during GTCC: Summer Showdown championship match.

On the last day, Ryan Dacalos of Batangas, Cesha Myed Tupas of Rizal, and Benigno De Guzman Casayuran of Quezon Province competed in a 100-round championship match.  Casayuran outwitted the two contenders while leading the game, claiming his GTCC championship title.

Filipino female rapper Queen Monica Money performing GTCC official theme song “Liga ng mga Hari”.

Beyond the competition, the tournament was made even more memorable by on-site treats and live performances from the Pinoy pop group Press Hit Play and Filipino female rapper Queen Monica Money, who energized the crowd with the official tournament anthem, “Liga ng mga Hari.”

A life-changing match

Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, a 62-year-old retiree from Candelaria, Quezon Province, won this year’s GTCC: Summer Showdown. 

Casayuran on-game-mode during the finals smackdown in GTCC: Summer Showdown.

Casayuran hugged tournament runner-up Dacalos in tears after winning the final match.

Behind this success and life-changing story is the inspiring narrative of Casayuran’s efforts to turn his and his family’s dreams into reality, with the support of his community.

In an exclusive interview, Casayuran tearfully shared why he joined GTCC, said, “...para sa pagpapa-chemotherapy ng misis ko”

Casayuran is a retiree and former fisherman who lives a simple life in a humble town in Candelaria, Quezon Province. He recalled his younger years and shared that he was a high school graduate who pursued a Commerce degree in college. However, due to financial difficulties, he was unable to finish his studies.

Years later, he married and had two children.  His eldest daughter has a family of her own, and his youngest son is a second-year college student pursuing an electrical degree.

His 65-year-old wife was recently diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, which prompted his decision to join GTCC.  The family relies largely on his and his wife's monthly pension of ₱2,000.  They also own a tiny sari-sari business, which helps them meet their basic necessities.  However, it was insufficient, and they had to seek government assistance for medical expenditures.  Casayuran currently serves as his wife's full-time caretaker.

Despite his difficulties, Casayuran fondly remembered how he started playing Tongits.  In search of leisure, he began playing the game socially, placing small wagers of ₱5 to ₱10.  When neighbors introduced him to Tongits' online version, his interest skyrocketed.  He became more serious about the game and was finally exposed to GameZone, which allowed him to qualify for the GTCC: Summer Showdown.

Initially, he intended to make it to the top 84, but he was extremely fortunate to have secured a position in the championship.

When asked about his immediate reaction after outwitting his two opponents, he burst into tears of excitement.

"Napakasaya, di po ako makapaniwala. Una ko pong pinasalamatan ay si Lord. Niyakap ko pa po ang aking dalawang kalaban at nagpasalamat din po ako sa kanila. Nung inawardan po ako, kinukurot ko ang sarili ko, tinatanong ko kung nananaginip ba ako—pero hindi pala. Wag agad magexpect ng malaki. Bale, responsible gaming lamang po. At sabi nga po ni Vice Ganda, 'Gambling is not an option to solve your financial problems.' Maglaro po tayo ng responsable at wag nating iasa sa gambling ang mga pangangailangan natin sa buhay." ~Mr. Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, a 62-year-old player from Quezon Province, the GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC): Summer Showdown Champion

With his life-changing winnings, Casayuran plans to allocate funds primarily for his wife's treatment and recovery, support his two children, and purchase a car for family travels around the Philippines.

He also expressed his deep gratitude to the brand and reminded fellow players to always practice responsible gaming.

Community wins 

BingoPlus Foundation Executives awarding the the 1 million pesos donation to Gems Heart Outreach Dev’t.,

In partnership with BingoPlus Foundation, GameZone donated ₱1 million to Gems Heart Outreach Dev’t., Inc. a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through sustainable community programs. The donation was made in fulfillment of the brand's commitment tied to the ongoing GTCC:Summer Showdown, dedicated to urgent needs of a community in South Luzon.

Impact of the recent  Super Typhoon Kristine in Buso-buso, Batangas.

Buso-Buso in Batangas, the community that benefited from the donation, is still dealing with the aftermath of Super Typhoon Kristine, which destroyed their poultry farm cooperative, a key source of income and food for many families.  The effort aims to restore food security, revitalize local economies, and give families hope as they begin to rebuild their lives.

The donation, was accepted on stage by BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director Ms. Angela Camins-Wieneke.

Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation Angela Camins-Wieneke delivering her message of gratitude for the 1 million pesos donation.

“Thank you so much to GameZone for the generous donation of 1 million pesos… To the players, this is an opportunity for you to make a difference. Your participation is not just about playing a game, and it’s not just about delivering entertainment to our viewers. Your participation will truly make a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of Filipinos across the country.” ~Ms. Angela Camins-Wienek, BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director

Through this collaboration, GameZone, BingoPlus Foundation, and GTCC players have proved how gaming communities can have a meaningful influence outside of the competition arena, demonstrating that true champions do more than just win games; they also help to improve people's lives.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

GameZone launches dynamic new chapter with Vice Ganda as its first-ever ambassador

The game just got greater and bolder as DigiPlus' newest brand, GameZone, gathered some of the country's most known media delegates, charismatic influencers, bloggers, and distinguished guests for its big debut on May 28, 2025.

Vice Ganda greeting the GameZone family during the brand’s grand launch.

The game just got greater and bolder as DigiPlus' newest brand, GameZone, gathered some of the country's most known media delegates, charismatic influencers, bloggers, and distinguished guests for its big debut on May 28, 2025.

Introducing GameZone's redefined and enhanced new logo, a more fluid user experience, and the first-ever brand ambassador, Asia's Phenomenal Unkabogable Superstar, Vice Ganda--the landmark event will undoubtedly reach new heights of ganda!

Mr. Jasper Vicencio, president of GameZone, unveiled the new design of the company's logo and explained how it embodies the brand's story.  He also stressed the brand's goal of creating a community among its gamers.

In his speech, Mr. Vicencio thanked the media partners and visitors for their unwavering support for the event.  He recognized the attendees, who had also supported DigiPlus's other two major gaming businesses.

He also complimented Vice Ganda for allowing GameZone to leverage her massive platform to promote pleasure and enjoyment while pushing for safe gaming.

Mr. Jasper Vicencio posing alongside Vice Ganda at the GameZone Grand Launch.

Spreading positive emotions, the momentum was boosted by the presence of Vice Ganda, the Philippines' multimedia icon.  They then unveiled the appealing billboard and showed off the vibrant TV commercial starring the one and only Meme Vice.

Furthermore, Vice Ganda answered questions from media representatives during a question-and-answer session.  When asked what it was about GameZone that prompted her say 'yes' to be an endorsement, she joked, "Well, unang una, maganda ang bigayan dito!", prompting laughter from the audience.

Although her amusing reply contained some truths, Vice Ganda emphasized the important reason for her decision to collaborate with GameZone.  claiming that she and the brand are perfectly aligned, serving the same objective.

“GameZone and I, we both share the same goal of giving entertainment, fun, enjoyment and good vibes to our consumers… Ang sarap malaman na isang araw, mayroong isang brand, malaking brand at magandang brand, na nagsasabing naniniwala kami sa’yo at gusto ka naming makapareha sa aming misyon. Kaya, maraming maraming salamat sa buong pamilya ng GameZone.” ~Vice Ganda, first-ever brand ambassador, Asia’s Phenomenal Unkabogable Superstar

With the newly updated and revitalized GameZone, Filipinos will have a new favorite pastime activity that will undoubtedly improve their gaming experience.  It is definitely 'game on' at GameZone! And remember, “Play for fun. Play Responsibly. Gambling is not an accepted way of livelihood and does not solve financial problems.”

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.