How Game Zone Reimagined Filipino Card Gaming with the Tongits Champions Cup

GameZone, a leading digital platform dedicated to Filipino card games, has long been committed to revitalizing traditional games through digital innovation. Known for modern adaptations of favorites like Pusoy, Lucky 9, and Tongits, GameZone sought to turn casual entertainment into recognized competitive events.

The GTCC was their most ambitious endeavor to date. Designed to legitimize Tongits as a skill-based, strategic competition, the tournament reflected GameZone’s vision of blending cultural tradition with the global rise of competitive gaming.

The event featured 27 participants—24 who qualified online and 3 Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs). These weren’t just random players; they earned their spots through a rigorous qualification process that tested both strategy and consistency.

The competitors were organized into three groups (A, B, and C), each composed of nine players—eight online qualifiers and one KOL. Players engaged in a round-robin battle within their groups, forcing them to constantly adapt strategies across several matches. The top three players from each group progressed to the finals, ensuring only the most skilled and adaptable reached the championship stage.

To make the tournament even more dynamic, GameZone invited three prominent gaming personalities to join the fray:

• Tisay Gaming: A Filipina esports expert of Italian-Slovenian descent, Tisay gained fame after winning “Warzone Heroes Showdown.” Her tactical mindset made her a strong contender.
• Ephraim De Castro (GameClass): A well-respected gaming content creator under Tier One Entertainment, Ephraim brought legitimacy and energy to the event.
• Yuka (Mt. Fuji): A half-Japanese model and online streamer, Yuka added charm and passion to the tournament, drawing in viewers unfamiliar with Tongits.

These KOLs weren’t just for show—they competed seriously, helping to bridge the gap between influencer culture and competitive gaming.

The tournament’s ₱1 million prize pool elevated GTCC to one of the most high-stakes card gaming events in Philippine history. Here’s the breakdown of the winnings:

• Champion: ₱300,000
• 2nd Place: ₱100,000
• 3rd Place: ₱60,000
• 4th to 9th Place: ₱30,000 each
• 10th to 27th Place: ₱20,000 each

Uniquely, every participant walked away with a cash reward—reflecting GameZone’s inclusive approach and commitment to player appreciation.

GameZone didn’t stop at cash prizes. They ensured all players were treated like professional athletes with the following:

• All-expense-paid round-trip transportation
• Full-board meals throughout the event
• 24/7 on-site support and medical assistance

This level of hospitality created a stress-free environment, allowing players to concentrate solely on their performance. It also set a new benchmark for local tournaments in terms of participant care and professionalism.

To guarantee transparency and compliance, GameZone collaborated with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Games and Amusements Board (GAB). Their involvement provided legitimacy and ensured that the event followed national guidelines for skill-based competitions.

These partnerships helped position Tongits as a game of strategy and intelligence—not mere luck. The GTCC thus became a symbol of how Filipino card games can evolve under proper oversight and governance.

Every match of the GTCC was broadcasted live via Facebook and GameZone’s official website. Thousands of fans tuned in daily to catch the action, accompanied by expert commentary and live analysis.

Interactive features such as live polls, giveaways, and Q&A sessions with the KOLs turned the livestream into a virtual gathering for fans. This elevated the event from a simple tournament to a digital celebration of Filipino card gaming culture.

What began as a casual game played during town fiestas and family occasions is now emerging as a full-fledged competitive platform. GTCC 2024 proved that local games like Tongits could be redefined without losing their cultural essence.

GameZone’s efforts demonstrated that tradition and innovation could coexist. The tournament honored the game’s roots while giving it the recognition and platform it has long deserved.

With GTCC 2024 hailed as a resounding success, the future looks bright for Filipino card games. GameZone has laid the groundwork for expanding this format to other classics like Pusoy and Lucky 9. The platform has proven that local games have the potential to captivate national—and possibly international—audiences.

The annual return of GTCC seems all but guaranteed. As interest grows, GameZone’s tournaments may become the launching pad for professional careers in Filipino card gaming.

GTCC 2024 wasn’t just a tournament—it was a pivotal moment in Filipino gaming history. GameZone’s success in merging heritage with high-level competition sent a clear message: Filipino card games have a place in the modern esports arena.

With its cultural authenticity, inclusive spirit, and competitive integrity, the GTCC redefined what local gaming can be. Tongits has now officially stepped into the spotlight—not just as a game to pass the time, but as a national treasure worthy of celebration, investment, and growth.

The GameZone Tongits Champions Cup is more than an event—it’s a movement. And for Filipino gamers, the journey is just beginning.