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Vice Ganda and GameZone embody the Heart of a Champion in the new TVC

By
PhilSociety
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The official poster of Vice Ganda and GameZone Tour winner Tatay Igno and wife

Asia’s Phenomenal unkabogable Superstar, Vice Ganda stars in the inspiring journey of grand champion Benigno “Tatay Igno” Casayuran, the oldest winner of the GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup: Summer Showdown now rebranded as the GameZone Tour. Similar to Vice Ganda, this champion’s story continues to inspire audiences on screen, capturing the hearts of many across the nation.

Vice Ganda leads the storytelling in the commercial, adding a heartfelt tone that resonates with the fans, conveying a message of determination and perseverance, while introducing viewers to a story that goes far beyond competition, stating that “Pag may laban ang puso, ‘yan ang tunay na panalo.” The GameZone brand ambassador, expressed admiration for Tatay Igno and his wife congratulating them both as they were also present during the TVC shoot.

The commercial follows Tatay Igno as a humble participant to grand champion, going through round after round during the tournament and eventually winning it all, a life changing and hardfought moment driven by passion that will now be shown on screen and every mainstream platform. 

The journey of Tatay Igno might be familiar to some, a heartwarming story of sacrifice as his ultimate goal exceeded his expectations, initially joining the tournament to reach the top 9 to help in the expenses of his wife’s ongoing treatment, he pushed through the finals and won it all, not only for himself but for his family.

Vice Ganda together with Tatay Igno and wife on set for their TV Commercial Shoot

The TV Commercial campaign aims to emphasize real players, real stories, and meaningful motivations that highlight GameZone’s community. The story of Tatay Igno and his journey as a champion serves as a powerful reminder that victories are won and celebrated beyond the game. Exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from the commercial shoot will be posted on the official GameZone social media pages inspiring gamers, fans, and audiences through a powerful and heartfelt story.

DigiPlus and GameZone continue to uphold its commitment to responsible gaming and fair play, while celebrating real champions, showcasing that every player can become a champion. 

With the release of GameZone’s TV commercial, its message conveys an inspiring journey, while also delivering a message of support and a reminder from Vice Ganda and PAGCOR to play for fun and play responsibly. Reminding us that gambling is not an accepted way of livelihood and doesn’t solve financial problems. Gambling can be addictive, it pays to know when to stop.

Experience the Real GameZone, watch the exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and the full TVC of Tatay Igno with Vice Ganda on the official social media page of the GameZone

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.

About GameZone

GameZone is a PAGCOR-licensed online gaming platform in the Philippines delivering secure and competitive Player vs. Player gaming experiences. Through the GameZone Tour, it is the pioneer of Tablegame Tournament in the Philippines specializing in popular Filipino card games such as Tongits and Pusoy, elevating traditional Filipino gameplay into modern competitive tournaments. With real-time gameplay, high-stakes competitions, and over 1,500 premium games, GameZone is building the country’s premier platform for skill-based gaming and digital competition. 

For more information, visit www.gzone.ph and follow @taragamezone and @gamezonetour on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Ikaw ang Alas! Manny Pacquiao named as newest GameZone brand ambassador

By
PhilSociety
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Mr. Manny Pacquiao and team, together with Mr. Eusebio H. Tanco and Mr. Jasper Vicencio at the GameZone booth

Filipino   boxing   icon   Manny   Pacquiao   has   been   named   as   the   newest   ambassador   of GameZone, officially joining the DigiPlus family in a ceremonial signing that happened on March 25, 2026 at the Shangri-La The Fort Manila.

The boxer was first teased as an ambassador during the newly rebranded GameZone Tour: Tongits Plus Champions Cup Season 4 on March 8, with the Ikaw ang Alas campaign  shown on the stage, screens, and backdrops where players and guests got the chance to take a glimpse of GameZone’s newest ambassador.

Known and recognized as the most iconic Filipino athlete worldwide, boxing’s lone  eight-division champion embodies discipline, resilience, and integrity, which are the values that align with GameZone’s competitive excellence and its Real Player, Real Game mantra. With the launch of the GameZone Tour the Pambansang Kamao amplifies its players, instilling a championship mindset to become the Alas in every game they play.  

The event served as a milestone for DigiPlus and GameZone, as it also highlighted the partnership with MannyPay, an online payment service where Pacquiao also serves as Chairman, giving players access to smooth transactions through the platform in the GameZone app.

DigiPlus and all its brands remain to be the nation’s leading digital entertainment platform, now with Manny Pacquiao as an ambassador of the brand who was joined with Mr. Eusebio H. Tanco, Chairman of DigiPlus Interactive Corp., and Mr. Jasper Vicencio, President of Total GameZone Xtreme Inc., who was also present during the ceremonial signing.

A knockout partnership: MannyPay Chairman Manny Pacquiao shakes hands with DigiPlus Interactive Corp. Chairman Eusebio Tanco, along with MannyPay President & CEO Marc Bundalian and AB Leisure Exponent Inc. & Total GameZone Xtreme Inc., President Jasper Vicencio

In addition, the company aims to elevate every player’s experience while also keeping its commitment to responsible gaming along with its announcement “The Strongest Move Is Knowing When To Stop” campaign. GameZone also announced its partnership with a brand video starring the champion himself which is available to watch in the GameZone official page

Multiplying the fun during the press conference a special flash mob performance was held with dancers and guests putting on the Pacman facemask with an impersonator joining the dance. The champion also took a jab at the GameZone booth, showcasing his strength in boxing.

The brand has also added Manny Pacquiao-themed games such as Pacquiao Fortune, Manny Punch, and many more to its application creating new and exciting features for players to enjoy. 

Known for its player-versus-player (PVP) experience in traditional Filipino card games such as Tongits and Pusoy, the partnership between the DigiPlus owned GameZone and Pacquiao adds credibility to the PAGCOR licensed and leading platform’s venture into mainstream entertainment and sports industry.

DigiPlus Interactive Corporation highlights its partnership with both Manny Pacquiao’s and GameZone’s commitment to elevating digital entertainment while promoting responsible gaming initiatives, and supporting the growth and evolution as the top and most trusted online card game platform.

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.

About GameZone

GameZone is a PAGCOR-licensed online gaming platform in the Philippines delivering secure and competitive Player vs. Player gaming experiences. Through the GameZone Tour, it is the pioneer of Tablegame Tournament in the Philippines specializing in popular Filipino card games such as Tongits and Pusoy, elevating traditional Filipino gameplay into modern competitive tournaments. With real-time gameplay, high-stakes competitions, and over 1,500 premium games, GameZone is building the country’s premier platform for skill-based gaming and digital competition. 

For more information, visit www.gzone.ph and follow @taragamezone and @gamezonetour on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Working From Home, Living Near Everything: Why This Setup Is Quietly Winning Today

By
PhilSociety
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A typical workday looks different when everything you need is within walking distance—where home, work, and daily essentials come together in one integrated environment

As more Filipinos embrace remote and hybrid work, SMDC’s ready-for-occupancy homes within integrated SM communities offer a more practical way to live—where daily needs, work, and life come together seamlessly.

What began as a necessity during the pandemic has quietly become a long-term shift. Across industries, companies continue to adopt remote and hybrid work arrangements, not as a temporary fix but as a more efficient way to operate in an increasingly unpredictable environment. For many Filipinos, working from home is no longer a privilege. It is simply how work gets done. 

The Real Cost of Going Out

At the same time, the cost of going out has become harder to ignore. Fuel prices continue to rise, traffic remains a daily uncertainty, and the time spent just getting from one place to another carries a real cost – financial, physical, and mental. In this context, working from home has evolved into something more practical. It is a way to take back control over time, expenses, and energy.

When Working From Home Isn’t Enough

But as more people settle into this setup, a more honest reality is setting in. Working from home does not automatically make life easier. It only works when the environment around it keeps up. Without that, the day begins to feel fragmented. Meals become an afterthought, errands pile up, and stepping out for a simple reset requires more effort than it should.

Daily traffic remains a constant challenge, reinforcing the value of living closer to where work, errands, and everyday activities happen.

A Shift in What Makes a Home Work

This is where the conversation is shifting. The question is no longer just whether a home can accommodate work, but whether it can support the entire rhythm of daily life around it. Because the real advantage of working from home is not staying in. It is having the freedom to move through your day without unnecessary friction.

The Rise of the “Everything Within Reach” Setup

A more effective setup is quietly emerging—one where everything you need is already within reach.Stepping out for a quick meal between meetings takes minutes, not a drive. Errands can be done in between tasks, not postponed until the weekend. Even a short walk outside can break the monotony of long work hours without disrupting the day.

Where the SMDC Advantage Comes In

This is where SMDC’s ready-for-occupancy developments offer a clear and tangible advantage.

Located within or directly connected to SM’s established communities, these homes are built around a functioning, everyday ecosystem. Residents are not moving into an isolated building waiting to grow into its surroundings. They are stepping into an environment that already works.

Designed Around Everyday Life

Groceries are within walking distance, with no need to plan ahead or rely on delivery.

Dining options are immediately available, whether for a quick meal between calls or a place to unwind after work. Essential services, from pharmacies to banks to wellness, are part of the same environment. Even leisure and open spaces are accessible without needing to leave the area.

This kind of proximity changes how a day unfolds. Tasks that would normally take hours can be done in minutes. Decisions that would require planning become effortless. The need to spend on fuel, delivery fees, or unnecessary trips is significantly reduced.

More importantly, it creates a sense of ease that is difficult to replicate in developments that are still waiting for their surroundings to catch up.

Working from home becomes more sustainable when the environment supports it—offering space to focus, reset, and move seamlessly through the day.

Why Ready-for-Occupancy Matters Now

This is also why ready-for-occupancy homes are gaining renewed attention. In a time when conditions continue to shift, buyers are placing greater value on what is already there. They are choosing homes that allow them to move in, settle in, and immediately benefit from a setup that supports how they live and work today.

A Quiet Shift in What “Value” Means

In many ways, this marks a quiet but important shift in how value is defined in real estate. It is no longer just about space or even price. It is about how well a home reduces the friction of everyday life.

The Setup That Works

And for a growing number of Filipinos, the winning setup is becoming clear. Not just a home where you can work. But a place where everything you need works around you.

For those considering a home that aligns with how life is evolving, SMDC’s ready-for-occupancy and pre-selling developments offer a practical place to start.

More details are available at www.smdc.com.

P25 million at stake in Jagat real-life coin hunt

By
PhilSociety
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Innovative map-based social platform Jagat is taking the spirit of the Easter Sunday Treasure Hunt over the holidays straight to the real and busy streets of the Philippines with Coin Hunt, its newest and most exciting event to date.

Since launching its interactive event on February 25, Jagat has given away around P25 million in prizes for Coin Hunt nationwide.

With Coin Hunt, players only need to register at Jagat and check the map for coins scattered near familiar neighborhoods and area landmarks. These in-app coins contain clues that help players find their real-world location.

Should the players find the coins and complete the corresponding tasks, they can redeem their rewards in the app.

As of April 6, more than 500,000 players across Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao have already joined the exhilarating real-world search for precious prize coins, but the fun does not stop there.

Jagat Coin Hunt players flex their successful real-world finds

Jagat is adding even more excitement for those out and about on the Philippines’ busy, sweltering sidewalks with the Easter Sunday Treasure Hunt, slated from April 5 to April 26.

If players find special coins related to this new event, they have a chance to win exciting prizes, such as iPhone 17s, a BYD car worth P1.5 million, and fuel vouchers, among others.

Make no mistake, though, the Jagat Coin Hunt is not just a solo experience. Players are encouraged to invite their friends for a safer, more fun, and more efficient hunting experience.

Combining real-world exploration with social interaction, Jagat aims to keep users connected with friends and explore more ways to socialize through features like real-time location sharing and footprint tracking.

Easter Sunday at The Manila Hotel: Golden Easter Egg Hunters and Ukrainian Heritage in Color

By
PhilSociety
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The Manila Hotel recently concluded two exciting events over the Easter weekend, offering guests both festive family fun and a rich cultural experience at the Grand Dame of the Philippines.

GOLDEN Easter Egg Hunters took place on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the Fiesta Pavilion. Laughter, excitement, and joyful cheer filled the afternoon as children and families enjoyed fun and engaging activities, including an Easter egg hunt, face painting, egg and cupcake decorating, arts and crafts, bouncy castles, balloon twisters, and more. Guests were also treated to delicious snacks provided by the event partners and enjoyed a captivating magic show, adding an extra touch of wonder to the festivities. A highlight of the afternoon was the live musical performance by The Manila Hotel’s very own performers, inspired by the artistry of Huntrix. 

Simultaneously, the Embassy of Ukraine in the Philippines and the Honorary Consulate of Ukraine hosted a special Easter-themed masterclass at the Roma Salon, titled “Ukrainian Heritage in Color: A Petrykivka & Pysanka Experience.” Attendees were delighted to explore the beauty of traditional Ukrainian art in a hands-on session with Ukrainian artist Arthur Tselishchev, discovering the colorful world of Petrykivka painting and the intricate symbolism of Pysanka eggs. Guests of honor included H.E. Yuliia Fediv, Ambassador of Ukraine to the Philippines, and Ms. Olena Vaniuhova, Second Secretary for Consular Affairs of the Embassy of Ukraine., who joined the activity to celebrate Ukrainian heritage and creativity.

“Easter at The Manila Hotel was marked by joy, family bonding, and cultural celebration,” said Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing. “We are proud to host events that bring people, especially families, together, whether through festive activities for children or enriching cultural experience for our guests.”

Everyone is invited to stay tuned for more exciting events, family activities, and special offers from The Manila Hotel in the coming months, promising even more memorable experiences for guests of all ages.

Investing in Smiles: New Bill Brings Affordable Dental Care to PhilHealth

By
PhilSociety
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For many Filipinos, a visit to the dentist is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity. Seeking to change this mindset and make dental services more inclusive, Congressman Martin G. Romualdez, along with Representatives Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, Andrew Julian K. Romualdez, and Jude A. Acidre of the Tingog Party-list, has introduced House Bill No. 4691. This landmark measure, known as the “Oral Healthcare Act,” aims to weave dental care directly into the country’s primary health system, ensuring that every citizen has access to essential services.

The authors of the bill pointed out that oral health is a vital but often neglected pillar of overall physical well-being. Romualdez emphasized that the goal is to protect the health of ordinary Filipinos, particularly those in underserved sectors. “Hindi dapat ituring na hiwalay ang kalusugan ng ngipin—ito ay bahagi ng kabuuang kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino. Sa panukalang ito, sisiguraduhin nating ang serbisyong dental ay abot-kaya, accessible, at hindi pribilehiyo kundi karapatan, lalo na para sa mga bata, buntis, at senior citizens”. He noted that by making these services part of the state’s basic health offerings, families can avoid the heavy financial burden of emergency dental work. “Kapag pinabayaan ang oral health, lumalaki ang gastos at problema ng pamilya. Layunin ng panukalang ito na gawing bahagi ng pangunahing serbisyong pangkalusugan ang dental care upang mapagaan ang gastusin at mapabuti ang kalidad ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” he added.

Representative Acidre echoed these sentiments, noting how a simple toothache can spiral into a major domestic crisis when professional help is out of reach. “Ang simpleng problema sa ngipin kapag napabayaan, nagiging malaking pasanin sa pamilya. Sa panukalang ito, tinitiyak nating mas maraming Pilipino ang magkakaroon ng access sa maayos na serbisyong dental,” Acidre said.

A key feature of the bill is the mandate for PhilHealth to expand its benefit packages. Under this measure, the state health insurer will cover essential procedures including oral examinations, toothbrushing drills, cleaning, fillings, and extractions. The legislation is designed to align with the Universal Health Care Act and the “Kalusugan at Nutrisyon ng Mag-Nanay Act,” ensuring that the government will “adopt responsive and efficient policies in oral disease prevention and promotion by scaling up essential programs and increasing investments to make oral health treatment and care more equitable and affordable for all, especially for the underprivileged, poor, and marginalized Filipinos.”

Beyond affordability, the measure also tackles the lack of dental professionals in the provinces. By creating more permanent positions for dentists and dental aides in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), the bill seeks to ensure that help is available even in the most remote barangays. According to the measure, “human resource development for oral health shall be geared towards the development of adequate, appropriate, competent and highly motivated health professionals and trained auxiliaries to manage and provide quality oral health services.”

The proposal also envisions a shift toward preventive care through a nationwide awareness campaign and the designation of February as “National Oral Health Month.” By establishing a dedicated Oral Health Service (OHS) under the Department of Health, the bill ensures that there is a focused, institutionalized effort to keep the nation smiling. Once enacted, the DOH will have 180 days to issue the necessary rules to bring this vision of accessible, quality dental care to life for every Filipino.

Casino Plus Awards ₱271 Million Jackpot to Sole Winner, Reinforcing Responsible Gaming

By
PhilSociety
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From Left: Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma awards the check to sole winner “Angel”, witnessed by PAGCOR Officials

Casino Plus, a trusted online casino platform in the Philippines and one of the country’s leading responsible gaming brands licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), celebrated a record-breaking milestone with a single jackpot payout of ₱271,433,871.79. This life-changing prize, recognized as one of the largest individual online gaming payouts in the country this year, was won in the platform’s popular, uniquely Filipino-inspired Color Games. 

In a simple yet meaningful awarding ceremony witnessed by officials from PAGCOR, Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma formally handed over the check to the winner, who, for security and privacy reasons, goes by the name “Angel.”

“At CasinoPlus, we celebrate wins and take pride in creating life-changing experiences through our distinctively fun Filipino-inspired games. But more importantly, we stand for self-control, awareness, and smart decisions. This jackpot of over ₱271 million showcases the extraordinary possibilities on our platform, while reinforcing our steadfast commitment to offering these opportunities responsibly, with player safety and fair, transparent digital gaming at the forefront,” said Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma.

Upholding transparency and full regulatory compliance

The jackpot payout was processed in full compliance with PAGCOR requirements, including mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, and robust encryption security measures. Casino Plus strictly adheres to the regulatory body’s responsible gaming framework, upholding the highest standards of player protection and operational integrity.

“Integrity and transparency remain at the core of our mandate at PAGCOR, and big moments like this reinforce the trust placed in the country’s gaming industry. Let us continue playing safe by supporting PAGCOR-licensed gaming sites and responsible gaming partners”, said Senior Compliance and Monitoring Officer Cheryl Dyoco.

One Win, A Lifetime of Possibilities

Angel, a mother and sari-sari store owner from Central Luzon, was a registered Casino Plus online player at the time of her win. 

“Hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na nanalo ako ng jackpot. Naglalaro lang ako ng Color Game sa Casino Plus during my free time—pampalipas oras lang,” Angel shared in an interview. “Maraming salamat sa Casino Plus for this opportunity. Napakadali at mabilis ang proseso ng pag-claim ng prize, at inalalayan nila ako sa bawat step, kaya dagdag peace of mind. Malaking tulong ito sa pamilya ko, lalo na para sa pag-aaral ng anak ko.”

When asked about a tip she could share for other players, “Saken importante talaga ang control. Tuwing good mood lang ako naglalaro and may limit kasi alam ko naman ang responsibilities ko. Also, siniguro ko rin na sa legitimate gaming app ng PAGCOR lang para iwas scam.”

Beyond the Colors, Uniquely Filipino

Color Game is one of Casino Plus’s most popular live game offerings on its online casino platform in the Philippines. Players place bets on one or more color combinations before a game host pulls a lever to reveal a randomized combination of results. Wins are determined by how a player’s chosen colors match the outcome and multiplier bonuses. Games are hosted live, often by prominent personalities, and streamed in real time to players nationwide. 

Casino Plus emphasizes that sustainable gaming begins with informed players. Responsible gaming is a core principle, and the platform encourages users to set personal limits, play within their means, and approach gaming as entertainment. This ₱271 million payout stands as proof that regulated, responsible gaming delivers real, verified outcomes for Filipino players.

In August 2024, a ₱303-million jackpot was won on Casino Plus, marking one of the platform’s largest payouts to date. The win represents a significant milestone in its operations and underscores the growing popularity of its Color Game offering. Since its launch on August 31, 2023, the game has produced 76 millionaires across the Philippines, with total payouts reaching approximately ₱870 million. These outcomes reflect the platform’s expanding reach and its role in delivering meaningful, life-changing opportunities to players, underpinned by transparent processes and adherence to regulatory standards set by PAGCOR.

For more information, visit casinoplus.com.ph.

The Bevvy Returns: Makati’s Hidden Gem

By
PhilSociety
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Tucked inside a warehouse complex along Chino Roces Avenue in Makati, The  Bevvy has quietly built a reputation as a hidden gem for wine lovers, industry  insiders, and curious newcomers. 

Known for its extensive wine list, great food, and warm hospitality, The Bevvy  has developed a loyal following and an organic 4.9 rating on Google Reviews,  where guests consistently highlight the food and service. 

After a short renovation, The Bevvy returns with a refreshed space designed to  feel warmer, more intimate, and more immersive, while staying true to its  philosophy: “Where fine wine can be casual.”  

What Makes The Bevvy Different  
A Hidden Gem in Makati – Located inside a warehouse complex, The Bevvy is the  kind of place people discover rather than pass by — and once discovered, it often  becomes a favorite. 

Wine Without the Usual Markups  
Guests can browse the wine shelves and enjoy bottles at retail prices rather than  typical restaurant markups, making the wine experience more relaxed,  approachable, and satisfying. 

A Wine Bar Known for Its Food  
The Bevvy’s well-loved menu features dishes inspired by Filipino comfort  favorites, Japanese bar classics, and European wine bar staples, creating food  that pairs naturally with wine. 

Ideal for Intimate Private Gatherings  
The Bevvy is also perfect for small private parties and corporate gatherings,  available through a minimum consumable package that offers exclusive use of  the venue for four hours. 

The Relaunch: A New Vintage  
The refreshed space introduces: 

  • A more immersive wine display 
  • A warmer, more intimate bar environment 
  • A cozy al fresco corner for slow wine and relaxed conversations • The original Pilsner Urquell served on draft 
  • Future tastings and learning sessions through The Bevvy University

📍 Location
UPRC III Building
2289 Chino Roces Ave. Ext., Makati City

📱 FB/IG @thebevvyph

📅 Reservations
Randy – +63 917 594 0353

📞 Media Contact
Yna – 0949 861 7741

Rakuten Viki Expands April Lineup with Heart Signal 5and New Crime Thriller The Scarecrow

By
PhilSociety
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From relationship build-ups to unresolved crimes, Viki’s April slate explores two contrasting genres shaped by emotion and high-stakes storytelling

Rakuten Viki, the global streaming destination for Asian entertainment, introduces a refreshed April lineup for Southeast Asia, anchored by the return of a well-known Korean dating reality franchise and the debut of a new crime thriller shaped by real events.

Returning this month is Heart Signal 5, marking the series’ first comeback in nearly three years. The franchise has built a strong following for its grounded portrayal of modern relationships, while also contributing to the rising global interest in Korean dating formats. Many of its past participants have since developed their own public profiles, reflecting the show’s cultural impact beyond the screen. The new season will premiere exclusively on Viki on April 16, with Bahasa Indonesia, Thai, and Malay subtitle options for global audiences.

Heart Signal 5 follows pairs of singles as they move into the co-ed Signal House in search of love. In this distinctive dating format, participants express their feelings only through anonymous text messages, intensifying the suspense and complexity of evolving love lines. The series also invites viewers to join the experience, turning each episode into an interactive guessing game as they predict where each cast member’s “love arrow” will land—alongside the insights of the in-studio panel.

Each episode is accompanied by a celebrity panel of love experts who provide real-time commentary and insight from the studio. Returning panelists include the familiar faces of Yoon Jong Shin, Kim Ea Na, and Lee Sang Min, joined this season by new additions—singer-songwriter Roy Kim and Tsuki of K-pop girl group Billlie—bringing fresh perspectives to the series.

Further expanding the lineup is The Scarecrow, premiering April 20. The series follows Kang Tae-ju, a former top-performing detective reassigned to his hometown, where he takes on a long-standing serial murder case. His investigation places him in direct conflict with prosecutor Cha Si-young, a former school rival whose ambitions shape the direction of the case. As both pursue the truth, their differing methods begin to influence the outcome in unexpected ways.

Directed by Park Jun-woo (Taxi Driver, Crash)  and written by Lee Ji-hyeon, The Scarecrow draws from one of South Korea’s most notorious criminal cases, which remained a mystery for decades before the truth finally emerged. In preparation for the production, the creative team conducted extensive script discussions to align the cast on character motivations and the broader narrative direction, grounding the series in both psychological depth and procedural detail.

The drama is led by Park Hae-soo, recognized for his work in Squid Game, who portrays Kang Tae-ju as he navigates professional setbacks and renewed purpose. He is joined by Lee Hee-joon, known for his range in portraying complex characters, who takes on the role of Cha Si-young, a prosecutor whose calculated approach adds tension to the investigation. Lee has shared in interviews that his decision to join the project was shaped by both the script and his previous collaborations with the director.

While The Scarecrow presents a contemporary retelling inspired by real events, it also reflects the enduring influence of earlier works in the genre, including the 2003 film Memories of Murder, directed by Bong Joon-ho, which remains a reference point for crime storytelling.

“These titles reflect how audience preferences continue to evolve across Southeast Asia,” said Jaehee Hong, Chief Content Officer at Rakuten Viki. “We are seeing strong engagement across both reality formats and scripted series, and our focus is on bringing in stories that are distinct in tone while remaining relevant to regional viewers. As we expand our content slate, Viki is rolling out a curated lineup of Korean variety shows and classics—broadening our reach beyond drama viewers to engage a wider audience of entertainment fans.”

With a mix of reality and narrative-driven content, Viki’s April lineup continues to expand its offering for audiences across the region.

Heart Signal 5 premieres April 16, followed by The Scarecrow on April 20, both available on Viki across Southeast Asia, the Americas, Oceania, Middle East, and India.

SMX Convention Center Clark sustains winning streak at the DOT Region 3 TRES Awards

By
PhilSociety
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SMX Convention Center Clark has been recognized for the third consecutive year by the Department of Tourism Region III, Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards. Image: Cons Photographics - petercons.com

SMX Convention Center Clark, a premiere convention center under the SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) portfolio, emerged as a top awardee at the Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards 2025 organized by the Department of Tourism Region 3.

SMX Clark was recognized as the Grand Winner of the Tourism Quality Awards for MICE Event Venue and MICE Meeting Room, strengthening its role as a standard for quality in the MICE industry. In addition, it received a Special Citation for MICE Exhibition Venue, further enhancing its reputation as a preferred venue for large-scale gatherings in the region.

The TRES Awards celebrate outstanding enterprises and stakeholders that elevate the standards of tourism and hospitality in Central Luzon. This latest recognition marks the third consecutive year that SMX Convention Center Clark has been honored by the Department of Tourism Region 3, highlighting its sustained excellence and consistent delivery of high-quality event experiences. Over the years since its opening in 2022, the venue has continued to set benchmarks in service, facilities, and event execution, earning the trust of both local and international organizers.

“As Central Luzon strengthens its position as a key hub for business events, SMX Convention Center Clark stands at the forefront, committed to providing world-class spaces and curated experiences that fuel progress and foster purposeful connections,” said Walid Wafik, SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President for Operations. “Further developing its regional presence, SMX is gearing up to launch SMX Trade Hall Cabanatuan in the fourth quarter of 2026, introducing a new venue to its expanding Central Luzon network alongside its established sites in Clark and Olongapo, while increasing its capability to stage more high-impact, large-scale events across the region,” Mr. Wafik added.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/ 

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