In the Philippines, Tongits is more than just a game—it’s a cherished cultural tradition that has brought families and communities together for generations. It’s been a staple at countless family reunions, community gatherings, and casual hangouts across the country, a game known and loved by many. But now, thanks to the innovative efforts of GameZone, Tongits is making a groundbreaking leap from the intimate settings of homes to the grand stage of national competition.

The GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC) is redefining what it means to play Tongits. It transforms a beloved pastime into a thrilling arena where skill, strategy, and passion clash for a chance at life-changing prizes.

Following an electrifying online season last June filled with intense gameplay, meticulously structured qualifiers, and touching stories like that of champion Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, the GTCC is set to blaze new trails. This September, the tournament shifts gears with its offline edition, moving the high-stakes drama from screens into a live, face-to-face battle where the game’s full intensity will captivate players and audiences alike. This isn’t just another tournament—it’s the most immersive Tongits event the Philippines has ever seen.

So, what makes the GTCC truly stand out? Let’s delve into the factors that are driving this tournament to become a national phenomenon.

An Exclusive Focus on Tongits: Depth Over Diversion

One key thing that sets the GTCC apart is its complete dedication to Tongits. Unlike many card game tournaments where Tongits is just one option among several titles, the GTCC is unapologetically focused on this cherished Filipino game. This sharp focus allows for a tournament experience that is meticulously tailored to highlight the game’s unique complexity and depth.

Because the GTCC revolves solely around Tongits, organizers can deploy specialized rules, refined gameplay formats, and strategies that honor the game’s nuances and challenge even the most experienced players. This exclusivity means matches aren’t rushed or diluted by other games; instead, the spotlight remains firmly on Tongits, making competition fiercer and far more exciting.

Players enter an arena where every move, every bluff, every tactical decision can mean the difference between victory and defeat. This kind of high-pressure Tongits excites fans and pushes players to their limits, creating thrilling spectacles every time.

A Fair, Multi-Stage Qualifying System That Rewards Skill and Consistency

Another groundbreaking feature of the GTCC is its intelligently designed, multi-tiered qualification system. Whereas many tournaments jump immediately into knockout rounds, the GTCC’s journey maximizes fairness and tests more than just a player’s raw talent—it demands consistency, stamina, and mental resilience.

The campaign begins with the Tongits Free Multi-Table Tournament (MTT)—an open, free competition lasting several weeks. This stage invites players from every corner of the Philippines to compete repeatedly, climbing leaderboards through continuous strong performances. This system encourages participation and skill development, rewarding consistency over time.

The highest-ranking players then progress to the GTCC Online Finals, where competition stiffens and elimination tightens. Only those able to withstand this pressure advance to the final step.

The top 93 performers from the online finals earn a coveted spot in the face-to-face GTCC championship—the climax of the tournament where the nation’s finest gather to claim ultimate glory.

This progression not only enhances the competitive credibility but also gives every aspiring player a clear and fair route to the big stage.

Life-Changing Rewards and Stories That Inspire

GTCC isn’t just about recognition—it’s about transformation. With a staggering Php 10 million prize pool, including Php 5 million for the champion, it’s one of the richest card game tournaments in Philippine history. But what really sets it apart is how it changes lives.

The story of Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, a 62-year-old player from Candelaria, Quezon, beautifully illustrates this impact. Battling financial challenges and accompanying emotional trials—including his wife’s fight against cancer—Benigno rose through the ranks with sheer determination. His victory at the June Summer Showdown was more than a game win; it was a personal triumph. Supported by his community, Benigno used his prize to fund his wife’s medical care and realize dreams of travel he’d only hoped for.

GTCC is a powerful reminder that this tournament isn’t just a contest—it’s a platform where resilience, hope, and community spirit thrive alongside skill and competition.

The Next Exciting Chapter: A Live, Face-to-Face Tournament

Having made a strong mark online, the GTCC is ready to embark on new territory with its live tournament debut this September. This much-anticipated event promises to amplify every aspect of competition by transferring the energy and tension of online battles into a shared physical space.

Imagine the intensity as players lock eyes across the table, reading every subtle expression and gesture, each card played with weight and purpose. Spectators will witness not just a game but a drama unfolding live, capturing every twist, bluff, and surprise.

For fans, competitors, and newcomers, the live GTCC promises an exhilarating experience that’s hard to find elsewhere—bringing Filipino card gaming culture vividly to life.

Playing Responsibly: GameZone’s Commitment to Safe Gaming

Great competition comes with great responsibility. GameZone leads the way in promoting a culture of safe, balanced gaming throughout the tournament.

Participants are encouraged to:

• Set healthy time limits and balance gaming with their daily lives
• Play for fun, skill growth, and competition—never solely as a means of income
• Know their limits and take breaks when gaming affects mood or finances

This commitment safeguards player well-being and ensures Tongits stays a source of joy, connection, and challenge—not stress.

Final Thoughts: GTCC Is More Than a Tournament—It’s a Movement

GTCC is rewriting the story of competitive Tongits in the Philippines like no other event. Through its exclusive focus on Tongits, structured qualifying paths, life-changing rewards, inspiring human stories, and broad accessibility via GameZone Online, it builds more than a competition—it builds a community and legacy.

The upcoming live tournament this September marks a thrilling milestone and the start of a new era in Filipino card gaming history. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, competitive hopeful, or passionate fan, now is the time to join this extraordinary journey.

Stay tuned to GameZone’s channels for the latest news, and remember to play smart, play fair, and, above all, play with heart. The future of Tongits is here—and you won’t want to miss it.