DigiPlus earns first ASEAN Golden Arrow Award for corporate governance excellence

Tweet

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus), the country’s premier digital entertainment provider behind BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, achieved a major milestone in corporate governance excellence by earning its first-ever Golden Arrow Award. The recognition was conferred on October 23 during the awarding ceremony organized by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), the Philippines’ Domestic Ranking Body (DRB) for the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS).

DigiPlus received a 2-Golden Arrow Award, one of the five levels of distinction granted to publicly listed companies that demonstrate outstanding corporate governance performance.

The Golden Arrow Recognition is among the Philippines’ most prestigious corporate honors, recognizing companies that lead in transparency, accountability, and integrity. Anchored on the ACGS framework, it evaluates how effectively organizations uphold shareholder rights, engage stakeholders, promote sustainability, ensure transparency, and maintain strong board oversight in alignment with both local and international governance standards.

Representing DigiPlus at the Golden Arrow Awards 2025 were (L-R) Celeste Jovenir (VP of Investor Relations, Corporate Communications, and Sustainability), Atty. Carol Padilla (Corporate Secretary), and Atty. Kristine delos Reyes (Chief Legal and Compliance Officer).

“Earning our first Golden Arrow affirms DigiPlus’ commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco. “We are proud to be recognized among the country’s most trusted publicly listed companies and remain focused on creating long-term value for our shareholders, stakeholders, and the customers and communities we serve by leading with transparency, accountability, and integrity.”

Since 2023, DigiPlus has continued to strengthen its commitment to sustainability, transparency, and accountability by adopting globally recognized reporting frameworks, including the Integrated Reporting Framework, SASB Standards, GRI Standards, and the TCFD Recommendations. These standards have guided the Company to deliver more comprehensive and relevant disclosures—highlighting how it creates value, addresses industry-specific ESG issues and stakeholder expectations, and manages climate-related risks. DigiPlus publishes its annual Integrated Report on its corporate website, demonstrating its dedication to providing accessible and timely material information.

The 2025 Golden Arrow Recognition marks a significant milestone in DigiPlus’ ongoing journey toward good governance and sustainability, underscoring its role as a pioneer in digital entertainment and an advocate of stronger corporate governance in the Philippines.

Funding gold: PH sports leader cites role of online gaming in athlete success

Tweet

As debates heighten over the future of online gaming in the Philippines, one truth is often overlooked: the industry plays a vital role in funding Filipino athletes’ journeys to the world’s biggest sporting stages. Companies like DigiPlus Interactive Corp., through its sports entertainment brand, ArenaPlus, have quietly fueled the dreams of Olympic hopefuls, making victories for the country possible.

Cynthia Carrion, President of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines and manager of Olympic double gold medalist Carlos Yulo, emphasized the crucial role of corporate sponsorship in sustaining athletes. “People see the medals, but not the long journey it takes to get there,” Carrion said. “Without sponsors, including those from the online gaming sector, we simply would not have the funds to train, travel, or compete. It’s their support that helps put the Philippine flag on global podiums.”

The gaming industry, now under pressure from calls for tighter regulation or even prohibition, has quietly backed numerous national sports campaigns. Athletes like Eumir Marcial (boxing), Carlos Yulo (gymnastics), Scottie Thompson (basketball), have all benefited from sponsorships funded in part by gaming revenues, support that includes coaching, nutrition, overseas training, and exposure to world-class competition.

Carlos Yulo, speaking after his historic Olympic double gold, echoed this gratitude in an August 2024 press conference, highlighting private partners who stood behind him. “I’m deeply grateful to DigiPlus and ArenaPlus for celebrating this win with me, and recognizing my perseverance. Success does not come overnight, it is made possible with the support of those who believe in you,” Yulo said.

Carrion is no stranger to the demands of high-performance sport. A former Undersecretary for Sports and Wellness at the Department of Tourism and current Chair of the Philippine Retirement Authority, she has long been a leading force in Philippine sports development. She also serves on the Executive Committee of the Asian Gymnastics Union, is a Council Member of the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG), and was formerly Treasurer of the Philippine Olympic Committee. Under her leadership, the Philippines earned its first-ever gymnastics Olympic medals and became the most bemedaled sport in the 31st SEA Games.

Carrion underscored that support from private entities fills critical gaps left by government funding. “This industry contributes billions in corporate social responsibility. Part of that goes to sports, where government budgets alone often fall short,” she added.

Beyond elite athletes, gaming revenues have helped bankroll national tournaments, grassroots leagues, and other sports initiatives to discover and develop future champions. For many sports organizations, these contributions have meant the difference between hosting a local competition or canceling it altogether.

As Team Philippines prepares for upcoming global events, supporters and sports managers alike call for a more balanced conversation. “Let’s improve regulation where needed, but let’s also acknowledge the good that legal, compliant operators bring to society,” Carrion said.

For every player, a safer game: DigiPlus, BingoPlus Foundation mark Problem Gambling and Gaming Awareness Month with tools and training

Tweet

In the fast-growing digital gaming landscape, few players are committed to safety as they are to fun. This Problem Gambling Awareness Month, DigiPlus Interactive Corp., through its social development arm BingoPlus Foundation, reaffirms its industry leadership in responsible gaming, highlighting its pioneering use of in-app safeguards, real-world financial education, and company-wide mental health training to protect and empower Filipino players.

On May 19, 2025, DigiPlus’ CSR arm, BingoPlus Foundation, alongside key public and private organizations, led the call for responsible gaming at the 2nd International Conference on Responsible Gambling and Gaming Addiction held at the Quezon City M.I.C. Center, Philippines. In photos (from left to right): Youth Group Representative Dr. Rica Fatima Arias; Jay Valderama of Rehabilitation and Treatment Center; Dr. Lorolie Vinluan RGC from UP Diliman; Quezon City Healthcare Director Dr. Ramona Abarquez; Municipality of Sta. Rosa, Laguna Representative, Ms. Elvira Marcelo; Solaire Resort Representative, Mr. Hexell Tulod; Ms. Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation; Ms. Tersita Castillo, President and Chairman of Seagulls Flock Organization; Quezon City Mayor, Honorable Joy Belmonte, PAGCOR Chairman/CEO, Mr. Alejandro Tengco; and Mr. Atty. Jesi Howard S. Lanete, Assistant Secretary Department of Interior and Local Government.

With over 40 million registered users and more than 130 physical sites, DigiPlus is the country’s largest integrated digital entertainment ecosystem. But behind its scale is a human-first approach to gaming - one rooted in empathy, protection, and shared responsibility.

At the core of this commitment is GameSmart, a responsible gaming program grounded on the three pillars: prevention, education, and intervention.

A three-pillar framework: Prevention, education, and intervention

Through advanced in-app tools: custom time and spending limits, facial recognition, and e-KYC protocols, DigiPlus empowers players to take control of their own habits while shielding minors and at-risk groups from exposure. These aren’t just features, they are built-in guardrails designed to make responsible play second nature.

One of the foundation’s most impactful efforts is the “Pusta de Peligro” campaign, a public advocacy drive that reframes “Petsa de Peligro”, a term familiar to everyday Filipinos, as a moment to pause and reflect on responsible choices.

The Pusta De Peligro campaign launched across social media, TV, radio, billboard ads, speaks directly to cultural and financial realities. By tapping relatable moments before payday, it encourages players to evaluate whether it’s the right time to play or save for another day.

Education happens where it matters most: in the everyday moments of playing and decision-making. The Foundation’s “Tamang Laro, Tamang Panalo” campaign delivers financial coaching to both jackpot winners and targeted sectors in barangays, teaching practical skills like budgeting, debt management, and saving smart. From livestreams to barangay halls, the message is the same; real fun means being in control.

On May 6, 2025, BingoPlus Foundation kicked off the “Tamang Laro, Tamang Panalo” Barangay Caravan at Barangay 686, Paco, Manila, where low income families and target sectors in barangay learned practical tips on budgeting, spending wisely, managing debt, and saving smart-empowering them to make a better financial decisions for a more secure future. This continues the series of learning sessions initiated since 2024, transitioning from a hybrid webinar to a grassroots program.

Intervention is available when players need it most. DigiPlus has begun training frontline staff and customer service teams to spot red flags and offer mental health first aid. In partnership with organizations like Seagulls Flock, the Foundation is building systems that emphasize compassion, not punishment - ensuring no player feels alone when facing risky behavior.

In partnership with Seagulls Flock Organization, BingoPlus Foundation held its first-ever “Basic Training on Problem Gambling for First Responders” on April 21–23, 2025. The three-day session equipped DigiPlus customer service representatives with critical knowledge and tools to recognize red flags, offer empathetic support, and promote responsible gambling among users—reinforcing the company’s commitment to accessible mental health care and responsible gaming at every touchpoint.

Beyond compliance

Beyond its compliance with regulations, DigiPlus believes that understanding the human story behind every player is the key to long-term, sustainable entertainment. Through BingoPlus Foundation, the company brings responsible gaming efforts to where its customers live, work, and play – across stores, digital platforms, and communities.

These efforts are just part of a broader ecosystem of care. BingoPlus Foundation has allocated ₱150 million in 2025 toward social programs under four pillars: Technology Education, Accessible Healthcare, Community Resilience, and Responsible Digitalization. Responsible gaming is not a one-off campaign - it’s embedded across everything DigiPlus does.

“Problem gambling is real - but so is the power of technology, education, and community to prevent it,” said Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation. “At DigiPlus, we don’t just check compliance boxes. We’ve built an ecosystem that protects players, empowers families, and multiplies the good across every corner of the country.”

Looking Ahead

DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation are expanding their efforts even further. This year, the Foundation will launch new digital learning modules, host community dialogues, and scale partnerships with LGUs, schools, and healthcare professionals to build a wider safety net for players.

Because as we play, we can protect. As we win, we can uplift. And as we grow, we can multiply the good- together.

Empowering Communities: BingoPlus Foundation kicks off Barangay Bigayan Program

Tweet

BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of Digiplus Interactive Corp, continues to multiply the good with the launch of the Barangay Bigayan Program as part of efforts to uplift lives and contribute to a digitally-advanced and resilient Philippines.

The BingoPlus Foundation hands over a public tricycle to District 2 in Lemery, Batangas 

The Barangay Bigayan Program provides immediate support for target sectors and long-term capacity-building investments across four pillars: Technology Education, Accessible Healthcare, Community Resilience, and Responsible Digitalization.

Multiply the Good

Barangay Bigayan kicked-off at Barangay District 2, Lemery, Batangas where BingoPlus Foundation handed over a public tricycle. The tricycle serves as vital transportation support for senior citizens, pregnant women, parents with young children, and persons with disabilities, providing easier access to local health and daycare centers. It is also used for evening security checks, ensuring the safety of residents.

The tricycle transports target sectors during the day and aids in security checks at night.

Meanwhile, BingoPlus Foundation joined in the fun at Barangay Pitogo in Taguig City during their Foundation Week celebration where the foundation provided ambulance services and critical support to the community. Nearly 50 senior citizens and the local health center received a grant comprising wheelchairs, nebulizer kits, blood pressure monitoring kits, and glucose monitoring kits. This donation has made accessible healthcare a reality for the elders of Barangay Pitogo

Fun and safety go hand-in-hand as BingoPlus Foundation supports Barangay Pitogo’s Foundation Week with medical services. 

Nearly 50 senior citizens receive a grant of medical equipment to assist in making healthcare more accessible.

BingoPlus Foundation aims to “multiply the good” by partnering with the public sector in bringing needed services, equipment and infrastructure closer to communities.

“With collaborative efforts with our local community partners, we are looking forward to making a lasting impact through addressing pressing needs of the communities we serve through the Barangay Bigayan Program,” said Andy Tsui, President of DigiPlus Interactive and Chairman of BingoPlus Foundation.

For 2024, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. allocated over P100M to support BingoPlus Foundation’s various projects and initiatives that provide support to important causes under its key pillars.

-------------------------------------

About BingoPlus Foundation

BingoPlus Foundation is the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive Corp, one of the fastest growing digital entertainment companies in the country. BingoPlus Foundation aims to multiply the good to its partner communities through technology education, accessible healthcare, community safety and resiliency, and responsible digitalization. For more information, visit https://digiplus.com.ph/bingoplus-foundation/.