BingoPlus welcomes Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo home

A closer look at Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo, answering questions from the press.

BingoPlus, your comprehensive digital entertainment platform in the country, has always been supportive of Chelsea Manalo since she was pre-competing for the Miss Universe 2024. As she brought home the historic title of Miss Universe Asia, the brand formally welcomed her to the Philippines.

Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo in her homecoming presscon sponsored by BingoPlus.

BingoPlus held Manalo's homecoming presscon on December 14, 2024, at the Empire Studio. Manalo graced the event with her stunning green dress that complimented her perfectly.

In an interview with BingoPlus, Manalo expressed her appreciation towards the brand. She is grateful for how they have gone a long way in showing her great support before, during, and even after the Miss Universe competition.

“I want to say thank you so much to BingoPlus, kasi I already felt na I was home, hindi ako mag-isa. I had so much support when I knew they were flying in there to support me, to have a watch-party pa dito sa Philippines. So, thank you so much for giving that opportunity, for everyone here in the Philippines to watch with me or watch with them kung ano yung nangyayari sa Miss Universe. So, all throughout I never felt like I was alone, I think I have always been open to my story na I don’t have so much resources. But with BingoPlus, you have all the capabilities that you can have, so I am forever grateful.” ~Chelsea Manalo, Miss Universe Asia 

When asked about memories during the competition, she highlighted that being able to stand on stage and represent the country made her feel powerful. According to her, the send-off party is her most memorable memory with the brand, because she received so much support that gave her the confidence to compete.

Additionally, Manalo mentioned that she will be staying in the Philippines for some time. Next year, she shared that she will be traveling globally to fulfill her role as Miss Universe Asia. While this is truly a huge moment for Manalo, she went on to say that there is still room for improvement and a lot of things that still need to be learned.

Additionally, BingoPlus will remain committed to supporting Manalo. The brand is proud of her accomplishments and everything she stands for. It is truly amazing how Manalo radiates beauty from within. Her kindness, intelligence, humility, and passion surpass her title.

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 PeryaGame, Tongits+, and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

BingoPlus Empowers Brand Partners before the Year Ends

BP Hosts introducing the BingoPlus game segment inspired by Pinoy Drop Ball.

BingoPlus, your comprehensive digital entertainment platform in the country, upheld the Christmas party of the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA). The event transpired at a hotel in BGC, Taguig on December 12, 2024.

Mr. Jasper Vicencio (middle) took an oath as a representative of DigiPlus, TGXI, and GameMaster, as new advertisers for PANA.

The significant occasion highlighted the recognition of new members of advertisers PANA is partnering with. DigiPlus, the parent company of BingoPlus, was mentioned alongside TGXI and GameMaster. Mr. Jasper Vicencio, ABLE President, took an oath to have the brands enrolled as new members of PANA. AB Leisure Exponent, Inc. (ABLE), on the other hand, has been a member since 2022.

Attendees participating in the BingoPlus drop ball game segment at the PANA Denim Christmas Party.

True to its vision, BingoPlus rendered entertainment to attendees of the event. Inspired by the Pinoy Drop Ball game, BingoPlus hosted its own game segment with a total cash prize of 100,000 pesos. There was also merchandise that was given away to the participants.

Moreover, BingoPlus has given its extensive support to the SM Supermalls Media Thanksgiving Party. The event was held at the SM Aura Premier in BGC, Taguig on December 6 and 10.

On the first night, the attendees went all in with their 70's-inspired costumes and on the final day of the party, they wore anime themed costumes. The participants were given many gifts from raffle draws, prizes from games, and delicacies.

As the main sponsor of the special occasion, BingoPlus hosted its own game segment, inspired by its latest offering, Pinoy Drop Ball. A life-size imitation of the game was deliberately enjoyed by the media attendees as it gave them a total jackpot prize of 200,000 pesos and merchandise.

Mr. & Ms. Style Icon of the Night being awarded by BingoPlus.

The best dressed, male and female, were also commended by BingoPlus with a mega prize of 25,000 pesos each. A giant mock check was awarded to the winners with the title of Mr. and Ms. Style Icon of the Night.

In related developments, BingoPlus had an extensive sponsorship for the 2nd Speaker FM Romualdez Invitational Golf Cup. The tournament took place at San Juanico Park Golf & Country Club in Tacloban City on November 23 and 24.

The event gathered golf enthusiasts and players to celebrate the sport and pay tribute to the club's community legacy. It was a significant moment as it was the first golf tournament of its kind in Tacloban. Additionally, the event was designed to have a beneficial influence on the local golf community.

As the top sponsor of the tournament, the brand's exposure was highlighted at the venue with its banners displayed and merchandise giveaways. During the live event, BingoPlus was also mentioned and thanked by the organizers.

Indeed, this is a testament that the brand values meaningful partnerships with other organizations it supports. BingoPlus is also committed to maintaining and strengthening these collaborations in the new year 2025 and the years to come.

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 PeryaGame, Tongits+, and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

Holiday Gift Wraps at SM

Gift-giving is a beloved tradition, and the way you wrap your gifts can make all the difference. But with the holiday rush, finding time to perfect each package can be difficult. This season, SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela have a delightful selection of gift bags and accessories from SM Stationery.

From festive kraft bags with metallic accents to eco-friendly Christmas totes, there's a wrapping option for every gift. Want to keep it simple yet stylish? Try bleached kraft bags with holiday tags or elegant white paper bags, which are ideal for smaller items or gourmet treats. For wine enthusiasts, their selection of wine gift bags ensures that your bottles are party-ready.

Personalize each package with gift tags or ribbons, transforming it into a masterpiece. Additionally, Christmas goodie bags and totes make gifting more thoughtful and sustainable.

For those looking for versatile and thoughtful gift ideas, National Book Store at SM Center Sangandaan has a wide selection of items suitable for everyone on their list. From books and planners to crafting supplies, you'll find thoughtful gifts to show you care.

Purchase these gift-giving necessities at SM Stationery or at your favorite SM Malls in Grand Central, Sangandaan, and Valenzuela. Wrap your holidays in style and make each gift memorable with SM!

McDonald's and VYBE by BPI Spread Holiday Cheer with Sweet ‘Holiday Treats’ Promo

This holiday season, McDonald's Philippines is teaming up with VYBE by BPI to make celebrations even sweeter with the launch of the “Holiday Treats” promo. From December 11 to December 31, 2024, customers across the country can indulge in a free New Tiramisu McFlurry or New Hazelnut McFlurry with every qualifying transaction made through the VYBE app. This exciting offer gives McDonald’s fans the perfect reason to treat themselves while making the most of the season’s festivities.

VYBE, which is becoming a go-to digital payment platform for Filipinos, simplifies the way customers shop, dine, and pay, all through the convenience of their smartphones. With the VYBE e-wallet, users can make cashless payments in any QR Ph stores, enjoy exclusive promos like Holiday Treats, and earn rewards with every transaction. It’s the perfect companion for those looking to streamline their holiday shopping and dining experiences.

Customers who make a single-receipt purchase of at least PHP 300 at any McDonald's store nationwide, whether for dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru, are eligible to claim their free McFlurry. To qualify, they simply need to pay using the VYBE app. Once the transaction is completed, customers can head to the cashier or take-out counter and claim their New Tiramisu McFlurry or New Hazelnut McFlurry, just by presenting proof of their VYBE transaction.

Each VYBE-registered mobile number is eligible to claim one free McFlurry regardless of multiple transactions in a day, the minimum single-receipt transaction requirement of PHP 300 must be met. Making it easy to enjoy a daily holiday treat during the promo period. Customers are encouraged to grab their McFlurries right after completing their qualifying purchase. Whether you're craving the rich flavor of tiramisu or the nutty goodness of hazelnut, McDonald's has you covered with these delicious, limited-time flavors.

“We are thrilled to partner with McDonald’s to encourage Filipinos to embrace a more rewarding lifestyle by transitioning to digital platforms for their financial transactions. This collaboration is an easy and fun way for consumers to incorporate VYBE in their holiday spending while enjoying their favorite McFlurries this holiday season.” ~Eric Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems at BPI

The Holiday Treats promo runs through the end of December, offering a delightful way to celebrate the season with McDonald’s and BPI VYBE. With the ease of mobile payments and a free McFlurry on the line, there’s no better way to treat yourself or your loved ones this Christmas

To enjoy this special feature and other offers, download the BPI VYBE app today on Google Play or Apple Store.

McDonald’s Stripes Run 2024 Breaks Records, Raises ₱1 Million for Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers

The highly anticipated McDonald’s Stripes Run 2024 concluded with record-breaking success on December 1, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. The 13th edition of this family fun run attracted a staggering 11,000 participants, making it the largest turnout in the event’s history.

Since its launch in 2010, the McDonald’s Stripes Run has been a celebration of family, friendship, and fitness. This year’s event continued its tradition of supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), raising ₱1 million for the benefit of the Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers, which provide safe and nurturing spaces for children in underserved communities.

McDonald’s Philippines attributes the event's record-breaking participation to continuous innovation and a strong digital outreach strategy.

"The McDonald’s Stripes Run has built a loyal following over the years, but we’ve also worked hard to keep it fresh and exciting. This year, we leveraged social media, engaged with schools and fitness groups, and partnered with pet communities to create a truly inclusive event. The inclusion of the Fur Stripes category reflects McDonald’s broader commitment to creating feel-good moments. It’s a way to make the event more inclusive, family-friendly, and meaningful, while celebrating the special bond between humans and their pets. The long-term goal of Bahay Bulilit is to give every child access to quality early learning opportunities, regardless of their background. By participating in the Stripes Run, families are not only strengthening their bonds but also contributing to this important cause.” ~Adi Timbol-Hernandez, McDonald’s Philippines Assistant Vice President for Corporate Relations and Impact and Vice President of RMHC Philippines

One of the most celebrated additions to the event is the Fur Stripes category, which allows participants to run alongside their furry companions. This year, the category reached full capacity, with 500 fur babies joining the fun. McDonald’s introduced this unique category to foster inclusivity and recognize pets as an essential part of family bonding.

Adding to the excitement was the attendance of popular celebrities, including the Agoncillo Family (Ryan, Judy Ann, and Luna), KaladKaren, Angeline Quinto, Ysabel Ortega, Barbie Forteza, and David Licauco. Their presence further energized the crowd and highlighted the event’s appeal across different age groups.

The proceeds from the Stripes Run will go toward establishing more Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers nationwide. These centers provide safe spaces where children can learn, play, and grow while their parents are at work. 

BingoPlus blasts the party at the Howlers Manila 3.0

BingoPlus’ logo exposure on an LED screen at the Howlers Manila 3.0.

BingoPlus, the country’s leading digital entertainment platform, elevated the Howlers Manila 3.0 Cosplay and Music Festival on Saturday, December 7. The party was held on the grounds of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in Pasay City.

The unforgettable event was packed with top-notch music and the cosplay world combined. Gym Class Heroes, Rico Blanco, Flow G, James Reid, and more are among the talented artists lined up for entertainment. The festival's attendees were also excited to meet their favorite cosplayers.

BingoPlus livestream with influencers during Howlers Manila 3.0 shared on Facebook.

With BingoPlus’ all-out support for the event, attendees get to have fun and experience the brand’s enjoyable offerings such as Lucky Spin, Bingo Rush, Pula Puti, and the newly-launched Pinoy Drop Ball. A photo-booth and a 360-degree Glambot were also set up on the ground, providing entertainment and prizes to partygoers.

While being recognized as the top sponsor of the festival, BingoPlus had its own segment on stage, where our very own mascot Bingbing and BP dancers got to perform. An engaging livestream with influencers was also shared on BingoPlus’ Facebook page featuring Simon Javier, Zara Lopez and Will Ashley.

Howlers Manila attendees enjoying the lifesize Pinoy Drop Ball game

Moreover, BingoPlus made its presence throughout the venue by playing their TV commercials during breaks and displaying their logo everywhere. Additionally, BingoPlus provided participants with free merchandise to enjoy.

As BingoPlus aims to raise the dynamics of the entertainment world, the brand looks forward to sharing more memorable experiences through festivities and fun activities, such as this monumental event.

PNP now responds to emergency calls in 3-5 minutes as commitment to DILG’s Revitalized 911 program

Philippine National Police (PNP) responders now arrive on the scene in less than five minutes.

Police Brigadier General Warren Gaspar A. Tolito, Director of the PNP Communications and Electronics Service (CES) shared the good news that over 90% of all Police 911 calls can now be responded to in record response time.

The game-changing approach to emergency response is a direct result of the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Revitalized Emergency 911 Project that calls for immediate and accurate reaction to emergency calls from citizens and LGUs.

Majority of the emergency calls stem from vehicular accidents, domestic violence, public disturbance, individuals running amok, theft and robbery, Tolito revealed.

Tolito mentioned interesting cases of rescues made in the nick of time, like a woman about to jump off a bridge in Batasan Hills who was pulled to safety by PNP operatives, an abandoned newborn in an ecobag found in a vacant lot in Cabuyao, Laguna that was brought to the hospital just in time to save its life, and the thwarted hijacking of a tanker filled with goods because of swift relay messages between operatives from the scene of the crime in Caloocan to the place of apprehension in Obando, Bulacan.

“At PNP 911, we do not discriminate. There was an incident of someone creating trouble in a Nueva Ecija establishment. Someone from the establishment called 911 and within 5 minutes, the responders were there. The apprehended person in the station was identified as an off duty-officer of the law. So we can be at par or better than other countries. We have accepted the challenge and even our Regional Directors are doing simulation exercises in the field just to show how serious we are about this. I think what drives our PNP to sustain this kind of response is the joy of responding and helping our kababayans on the ground who really need help the most. It’s very fulfilling to be able to help them by responding fast, it’s just that we did not have this type of system before. Now that we have it, our PNP has high morale because they have a clear sense of direction in their patrolling. emergencies can happen anytime, and we are happy that we can respond efficiently and accurately. It is in our nature as Filipinos to want to help our fellow men, in whatever way. The PNP, the E911 National Office of the DILG powered by NGA911's cutting-edge technology, data-driven analytics, and PLDT's network are at work daily elevating 911 of the Philippines to a higher level.” ~Police Brigadier General Warren Gaspar A. Tolito, Director of the PNP Communications and Electronics Service (CES)

Tolito said some cities like Quezon City and Zamboanga City respond really quickly and are very efficient in their emergency response. Areas where the nearest police station is a long way off take a little longer but still respond within the 3 to 5-minute standard. In Metro Manila areas, traffic sometimes affects response time. The highest emergency calls come from the Laguna and Cavite areas, he shared.

Robert Llaguno, country head of NGA 911 Philippines which provided the PNP with its patented call handling system, said statistics show that after calling 911 (then pressing "1" for Police) it takes less than a minute for such calls to be picked up and average dispatch time of responders is only 40 to 50 seconds. NGA 911 technology is responsible for leveling up emergency capabilities of the PNP and LGUs to standards used in the US and Europe.

“Comparable and may be even better than that of the States. The PNP is determined to sustain this type of response for Filipinos and should be commended for this.” ~Robert Llaguno, Country Head of NGA 911 Philippines

Tolito said the PNP is committed to get things done within the 3 to 5 minutes standard set by PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil based on a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last June.