DigiPlus, BingoPlus Foundation champion inclusion, empower PWDs with PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation

Posted on 17. September 2024 by Franc
Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus Vice President for Investor Relations and BingoPlus Foundation COO leads the groundbreaking of the PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation

Center for Adoptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation

BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of leading digital entertainment company, DigiPlus Interactive, has laid ground to the soon-to-rise PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation, together with the Philippine Accessible Disability Services Inc. (PADS). The ₱2 million facility marks a significant step towards empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to thrive and pursue opportunities in sports, health, and employment.

The PLUS Center will feature treatment rooms for indigent PWDs availing of free physical therapy services.

“Today, we are here not just to break ground on the PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation. We are setting in motion a vision where PWDs can thrive, adapt, and pursue careers as athletes, coaches, and more,” said Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus Vice President for Investor Relations and BingoPlus Foundation COO, in the groundbreaking ceremony of the facility. “PADS’ mission to empower PWDs as world-class athletes inspired us deeply at the BingoPlus Foundation. The PLUS Center will fill a critical gap in PWD healthcare, offering accessible rehabilitation and a path to new opportunities through sports.”

The PLUS Center will feature treatment rooms for indigent PWDs availing of free physical therapy services.

The BingoPlus Foundation adopted a multi-sectoral approach to the project. The Foundation collaborated with key partners, including the City of Mandaue, the Department of Health, Cebu Doctors University and various Colleges of Rehabilitative Sciences in Cebu, and the PWD Federation of Cebu. The PLUS Center will provide free physical therapy to indigent PWDs and recovering patients affected by stroke, paralysis, and other mobility-impacting conditions. It will also serve as a training ground for doctors and therapy specialists, ensuring high-quality care and skills development. The facility further provides recreational and competitive sports opportunities for PWDs.

Empowering through sports: a vision shared with PADS

Sports plays an integral role in rehabilitating PWDs – from providing recreation as part of mental health, to advancing opportunities to become competitive para-athletes and coaches

John Paul Maunes, Executive Director of PADS, shared his optimism about the partnership: “This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations come together to support PWDs. We wanted to create a better world and achieve our vision of a disability-inclusive society – but we cannot do it alone. BingoPlus Foundation completed that missing piece in this advocacy. The PLUS Center is not just a facility; it’s a symbol of hope and empowerment for many who aspire to break barriers in sports and in life.”

Hon. Jimmy Lumapas, City Councilor and Chair for Social Services, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are thankful to the BingoPlus Foundation for their commitment to uplifting the lives of PWDs in Mandaue. The PLUS Center will be a cornerstone of support, giving our community members the chance to thrive and succeed beyond their limitations.”

A commitment to community impact  

DigiPlus, BingoPlis
Sports plays an integral role in rehabilitating PWDs – from providing recreation as part of mental health, to advancing opportunities to become competitive para-athletes and coaches

The launch of the PLUS Center is one of many initiatives driven by the BingoPlus Foundation’s mission to “Multiply the Good.” Apart from supporting PWDs and promoting sports and wellness for the general public, the Foundation also plays a critical role in technology education, disaster relief, and healthcare accessibility. DigiPlus, the parent company of BingoPlus, continues to drive innovation and economic growth while making a lasting impact through corporate social responsibility, empowering the next generation of leaders and athletes.

Together with its partners, the BingoPlus Foundation continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and empowered future for all Filipinos. For more information about the BingoPlus Foundation, please visit https://digiplus.com.ph/bingoplus-foundation/.

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Timezone Crowns Its 2024 Make It Rain Basketball Champion

Posted on 12. August 2024 by Franc

Champion – Michael Rasco representing Timezone Cloverleaf 
with Pepsi and Timezone officials together with basketball players – Chris 
Newsome, Ben Adamos, William Navarro and Prince Carlos

Growing Up in a Basketball crazy nation, we always dreamed of that moment of taking that winning shot and being top of the world. Michael Rasco of Timezone Cloverleaf had his time to shine moment by making it rain for Timezone’s Basketball Challenge, he bested 24 contenders from the different Timezone branches including a come-from-behind victory over runner up Raylord Roxas of Timezone Mall of Asia. Efren Christopher Flaminia of Timezone Ayala Center Cebu completed the Podium

Timezone Make It Rain Basketball Championship

The top 3 winners of the Timezone Make It Rain Basketball Challenge with 
Timezone officials, basketball celebrity guests and the Arellano Cheerleading Group

5, 4, 3, 2… shoot… Most kids including me had that dream moment of winning at Basketball. That’s the dream until we realize that it’s not for all of us. But, Timezone got that inner hooper in you covered with their basketball games inside their area. Timezone is the country’s biggest indoor amusement park chain pulled out all the stops for a competition that engaged ballers of all ages. Be a baller, be an olympian or just let that little kid in you have fun.

Me with The Newsomes

Let the Games Begin

Timezone’s Make It Rain Basketball Challenge 2024 brought together the best ballers from across the nation to compete in a high-stakes tournament where skill, and strategy reign supreme. 

Arellano Cheer Dancers

Held on August 10th at Timezone Ayala Malls Feliz, audiences were treated to an electrifying event where sharpshooters tossed basket after basket, scoring points off the competition and having a blast.

Michael Rasco had to come from behind in a do or die game 2 before eventually winning the championship in game 3.

Every shot counted during the finals, but Michael Rasco representing Timezone Cloverleaf came away as the Grand Champion, taking home his very own Slam and Jam machine and beating the very best shooters from 32 locations nationwide. It was an exciting finals between Michael Rasco and Raylord Roxas with Rasco winning the last two games after falling behind in the first game. Both had overwhelming performance in the eliminations, quarterfinals and semifinals to set up their intense finals showdown.

Raylord Roxas won game 1 of the finals but dropped the next two games due to fatigue.

Of course, the 1st runner Raylord Roxas representing Timezone SM Mall of Asia up and second runner Efren Christopher Flaminia representing Timezone Ayala Center Cebu brought home 10K and 5K worth of cash as the competition came to a fruitful completion.

Timezone Makes It Rain with 2024 Basketball Challenge
Glad to cover the event, Thanks Rochele

The events also featured PBA ballers in Chris Newsome of the Meralco Bolts, Ben Adamos of Brgy Ginebra Kings, Will Navarro of Northport Batang Pier and Prince Carlos of De La Salle Blazers. Arellano University Cheer dances also provided the half time show during the event. 

From L-R – William Navarro – PBA Northport Batang Pier / Gilas, Ben Adamos – PBA Ginebra Kings, Miguel Crisostomo – Timezone Philippines Chief Commercial Officer, Prince Carlos – De La Salle Blazers and GMA Sparkle Artist and Chris Newsome – PBA Meralco Bolts /Gilas

Time to Play

Ana C. Benitez – Timezone Philippines Business Development Manager together 
with the participants of the Timezone Make It Rain Basketball Challenge 2024. 

Before the finals, participants aged 15 and older signed up at their Timezone of choice to try their hands at the prize from June 29 onwards. Each contestant got two plays to score as many points in order to move on to the next round.

Qualifying participants went through a triple wringer of trials: the weekly competitions seeking out the best in individual locales; and the venue finals where individual champions were selected to represent different branches.

Those who survived those grueling rounds made it to a grand showdown where the country’s best ballers finally determined who was the 2024 baller king.

But while this year’s champ stands tall as Timezone’s MVP, the fun isn’t over at all! Stay tuned for Timezone’s upcoming competitions. 

About Timezone Group  

Timezone was founded in 1978 in Perth, Australia and is the leading chain of Family Entertainment Centres in the Asia-Pacific region, offering state-of-the-art interactive games, rides, and attractions. Timezone provides a social experience filled with non-stop fun for all ages. Our best-in-class venue design and well-trained Fun Squad assures a safe, friendly, and fun environment for all our guests. Timezone internationally operates over 320 locations across 7 countries, with over 50 venues in the Philippines. Join us for an exciting, unforgettable experience at any of our locations or visit www.timezonegames.com to learn more.

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Incoming: Colorfest Electric Run Recharged

Posted on 21. June 2024 by Franc

There’s no party like the Colorfest Electric Run party… and it gets even better as it’s now RECHARGED. Get your running shoes and party attitude ready as the most electrifying run goes to SM Mall of Asia Complex on August 24, 2024.

Colorfest Electric Run Recharged

Get your glow on and your running shoes ready for the most electrifying event of the year! Colorfest Electric Night Run is back and RECHARGED, happening on August 24, 2024, at the iconic SM MOA Complex. Running in the night is fun but when you add in the glow sticks, color powders and the color powder ceremony, it becomes an unforgettable type of fun that gonna light up your night.

Runners and even non-runners will enjoy the fun that the color fun brings whether you go for 10K, 5K, 3K, and 1K distances. Each course is designed to offer a unique experience filled with vibrant colors and electric vibes. As you make your way through the run, immerse yourself in a world of glowing fun and high energy beats.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the finish line! After your run, join us for an epic after-party featuring a live DJ set that will keep you dancing all night long. Capture your best fun run moments, enjoy the electrifying atmosphere, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t miss out on the ultimate night run experience of the year. Gather your friends, family, and fellow runners to be a part of this colorful celebration. Register now and get ready to be RECHARGED!

For more information and registration, visit https://colorfest.asia/.

About Colorfest Electric Night Run:
Colorfest Electric Night Run is an annual night run event that combines fitness, fun, and festivity. Participants of all ages and fitness levels are invited to join and experience a night of glowing excitement and high-energy music.

Join us and get ready to light up the night!

Race Details

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Incoming: Race for Life 2024

Posted on 21. June 2024 by Franc

Run for the cause of Real Life Foundation, which has granted 3,000 scholarships since its inception in 2003. Run for Life is happening on September 15, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex with 1K, 3K, 5K and 10K distances to choose from.

Run For Life 2024

Race for LIFE is a fun run established to raise funds for scholarships awarded by the Real LIFE Foundation. It’s more than just a “Fun Run” and it has attracted participants of all ages and directly contributed to granting over 3,000 scholarships since the foundation’s start in 2003. Race for LIFE has become a symbol of hope, fostering positive change and empowering educational dreams. Run to make a difference in someone’s life through a scholarship of the Real Life Foundation. Run easy with mini race distances or challenge yourself with a 10K distance either way, you warm your heart with the purpose or you get a fitness boost of running.

About REAL LIFE

Real LIFE Foundation is a Philippine Christian nongovernmental organization that seeks to break the cycle of poverty in Filipino homes by providing targeted educational assistance to underserved youth and empowering them through character formation and leadership development.

Race Details

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Incoming: Garmin Run Philippines

Posted on 21. June 2024 by Franc

With its inaugural staging in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei in 2022, The Garmin Run Asia Series goes to the Philippines on November 17, 2024 with 5K, 10K and 21K run distances to choose from.

Garmin Run Philippines

I started my running journey with Garmin. I chased and conquered my first running and multi sports milestones with Garmin. It’s definitely a zero to hero story as I was never meant to be the athletic sporty-type. Garmin equips you to track your progress on your goals. I am a numbers person so metrics motivates me and that’s how Garmin helped me to progress from a non-runner to a marathoner. Chasing a sub 1 10K for the first time, I had to track my pace to ensure I’m not slowing down. When I was doing my first marathon, I was watching my heart rate just to know I still have enough left in the tank. You never know what’s your limitation until you push yourself and that’s where Garmin helps.

I am sure that there are a lot of Garmin stories out there and there are more upcoming with Garmin Run Asia having its own flagship runs in the Philippines. This could be the start of a journey for non-runners are a culmination to seasoned runners chasing new PRs. Garmin Run Philippines is happening on November 17, 2024 at Filinvest Alabang with 5K, 10K and 21K distances to choose from.

Race Details

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Incoming: 32nd Yakult 10 Miler

Posted on 22. May 2024 by Franc

When it comes to historic runs, Yakult 10 Milers is one of the longest running events. It’s now on it’s 32nd year and still going strong. Yakult 10 Miler will be held at SM MOA Complex on October 13, 2024 that comes with a 10-Miler, 10-Kilometer, 5-Kilometer and 3-kilometer runs.

Yakult 10 Miler

It’s one of the longest running foot race in the country powered by Yakult, which is the original probiotic drink with 8 billion live Lacticaseibacillus Paracacei strain Shirota. Yakult has been advocating good health with its product and fitness through its longest running event, Yakult 10-Miler. The event has carried the running lifestyle and fitness across decades, which is now on its 32nd year.

This year is the 32nd 10-Miler Run, and it will be held on October 13, 2024, at SM MOA Complex, Pasay! Powered by Hyvesports, this event offers 3K, 5K, 10K, and 16K (10-miler) distances, catering to runners of all levels. It’s a celebration of resilience, community spirit, and personal achievements. Lace up those shoes, push the limits, and be part of this remarkable journey. It’s also among the fast-selling events with last year staging being sold out weeks before the event day. Don’t miss out on the starting line! Register NOW!

Race Details

  • Event Name: 32nd Yakult 10-miler Run
  • Event Date: OCTOBER 13, 2024
  • Event Venue: SM MOA COMPLEX
  • Race Categories: 3K, 5K, 10K and 16K (10-miler)
  • Registration via Yakult10Miler
  • Race Fees and Inclusions:
    • 16K Event Singlet, Race bib with timing chip, Hydration, Yakult Bottle, Finisher’s Shirt, Finisher’s Medal (16K) and additional merch
    • 3K, 5K, 10K Event Singlet, Race bib with timing chip, Hydration, Yakult Bottle, Finisher’s Medal
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Incoming: Ribbons of Love – Cancer Run

Posted on 16. January 2024 by Franc

Run for Love and For a Cause This February 11, 2024 at Ribbons of Love – Cancer Run at the CCP Complex with 200M, 3K, 5K, 10K and 16K distance and you can have your pets run with you too.

Ribbons of Love

The “RIBBONS OF LOVE: Cancer Run” is envisioned to be attended by cancer survivors, their family and friends, healthcare providers, cancer advocates, industry partners and supporters, health enthusiasts and those who just want to have a good time with family and friends. Included in the event are a cancer screening examination for 100 participants for breast, thyroid, cervical and prostate cancer and distribution of educational materials for the screening, diagnosis and management of the different types of cancers. 

Cancer is a personal battle. but it takes a village to have enough love and support to contribute financially and emotionally towards each battle. Ribbons of Love: Cancer Run is your chance to join the cause as this is a run envisioned for cancer patients to appreciate the gift of life, awareness for cancer and raise funds for cancer research, cancer patient needs and the national cancer summit. The run is spearheaded by Philippine College of Surgeons Cancer Commission (PCS CanCom), whose in the forefront of cancer research and welfare.

There will be 5 categories: 200M (up to 10 years old), 3KM, 5KM, 10KM and 16KM fun run categories. Pets can accompany the runners for an additional cos

Race Details

  • Date: February 11, 2024
  • Venue: Liwasang Ulalim, CCP Complex. Pasay City
  • Distances: 200m, 3k, 5K, 10K, 16K
  • Event Duration: 4:00-9:00 am
  • Registration: My Run Time
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Incoming: Sundown Rundown

Posted on 12. January 2024 by Franc

Run into the night with the inaugural Sundown Rundown on January 27, 2024 at Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub with 5K, 10K, 21K and 32K distances available.

Rundown Sundown

Read about: 10 Tips for a Safer Night Run

Running at night is more of my comfort zone as I’m not really an early bird. It still gives you the endorphin high but at a much later time. Sundown Rundown just brings that healthy type of fun with a night run on January 27, 2024 at Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub. Get the newbie-friendly 5K and 10K distance to jumpstart your year in running or take the long-hard 21K and 32K routes made especially for endurance athletes and just perfect for those who are in their last leg in preparation for their full marathon some time in the first quarter.

It’s an inaugural race so expect more Sundown Rundown to come. First things first, though there are still a few slots remaining or you can have yourself waitlisted at some distances by emailing superseriesph@gmail.com or follow Sundown Rundown for update at https://www.facebook.com/sundownrundown.

Gunstart is as follows while cutoff is at 10 pm

  • 32K – 4 pm
  • 21K – 5 pm
  • 10K – 5:30 pm
  • 5K – 6:00 pm

Kit claiming schedule will be announced soon and inclusions are as follows:

  • Race Bib with RFID, collectible medal, event shirt*, trophy for overall distance category winners (male and female) and exclusive discounts and freebies from brand partners.
  • We have two event shirt designs, Sundown Orange for 5km and 10km, and Dapit Hapon for 21km and 32km.

Race Maps

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Incoming: KCC GenSan Marathon 2024

Posted on 10. January 2024 by Franc

Running is a great way to explore and KCC Gen San is a great way to explore the Tuna Capital of the Philippines on February 18, 2024 with 42K, 21K, 10K and 5K run distances. The run will also come with a great cause as the event will benefit KCC Foundation Inc.

KCC Gen San Marathon

Joining a run and traveling is among the best way to warm the heart and enrich the soul. What if you can do both? KCC Gensan Marathon is a race-cation event for you to enjoy the beauty of the Tuna Capital of the Philippines and pack those mileage in for a healthier new year.

RSRJ Events Management is inviting all runners, health and wellness enthusiasts to join the KCC GenSan Marathon 2024 on February 18, 2024. The event is a perfect venue to keep on training to achieve your goals, promote and maintain your physical and mental well – being.

The KCC GenSan Marathon 2024 will also showcase the strength and stamina of the elite runners coming from all over the country to compete in the 42K, 21K, 10K and 5K race categories. While recreational runners and health and wellness enthusiasts can test their endurance and prove their training is all worth it as they race from the start line through the finish line in their chosen race distance.

Experience the fun and the thrill of running in the Tuna Capital of the Philippines at the KCC GenSan Marathon at Veranza Mall Alfresco, General Santos City. Proceeds of this event will benefit the KCC Foundation, Inc., which provides scholarship grants to deserving and high potential students from the marginalized sector to provide them with the opportunity for better education so that they can excel in their chosen fields and become exemplary members and leaders of our society.

Register online at https://kccgensanmarathon2024.myruntime.com/register.

You may also register at KCC Mall of Gensan and KCC Mall of Marbel Payment Centers. 

Podium Prizes:

All finishers will receive a specially designed finisher medal. Finishers in the 42K, 21K and 10K race categories will also receive a fully sublimated finisher shirt. Plus, exciting freebies from our sponsors!

Register now, and be part of the community that helps communities.

Race Details

  • Fees and Inclusions:
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Year of The Franc Dise Otso

Posted on 2. January 2024 by Franc

2023 was a year outside my comfort zone. It was me branching out and making moves that will make my future self proud. It was a year of personal growth and ticking off a few milestones.

Outside of my Comfort Zone

Growth was the prevailing theme of 2023 from being nominated Controller of the Year to CFO Summits and eventually being a speaker in such events. Speaking is not new to me but to speak to over hundreds of CFOs and Head of Finance is another thing. It was only when I realized that when it comes to Finance and Accounting, that we are all telling the same story but at different levels of experience and industry perspective. 24 years in the business and I’ve been through so much in this field already to have a good narrative of the story.

Travel Unlimited

I was sort of stuck on revenge travel mode as I ended up with so many trips this year, twice in Cambodia, twice in Hong Kong, twice in Singapore, once in Taiwan, once in Davao, once in Pagadian and several land trips around Luzon. Some were work, some were for fun and some were to tick off some milestones.

Asian Trilogy Complete

Having completed the first two legs in 2015 (Kinabalu) and 2016 (Fuji), it took me until 2023 to finish the third leg (Jade Mountain). Jade was the elusive one missing the lottery in 2017 and 2019 and the pandemic denying my 2020 slot. I did do Snow Mountain in 2019, which I considered my somewhat Asian Trilogy because of how difficult Jade Mountain slots are. But I did it this year and what made it special was the struggle of building my way up again after sickly phase of the year.

Sickly 2023

I couldn’t really gather enough momentum in my training towards the second quarter of the year as every time, I get some head way, I get sick or injured. Blame it on a busy schedule or old age. Anyway, I was able to be a lot healthier in the last quarter to gain enough build for the Jade Mountain climb and be healthy for the year end.

Still On A Trail Mission

When it comes to events, one day I’m retired and one day I miss mounting them and start a new one. On A Trail Mission 3 Timberland was planned February, finalized in April and mounted in May with 200+ participants. OATM4 was planned in June but had a long time for the permits and mounted in September with over 200 plants and we were also able to plant 200 trees at Camp John Hay.

Bye 2023, Let’s Go 2024

2023 was an eventful year, though on a social scale, I was less visible. I am more calculated on how I spend my time and energy. I am more at peace on my one and in what I do that I don’t need to be on top of the world all the time. I may be scaling down my activities even more in 2024 but expect me to be more focus on my goals and passions. Silent steps towards bigger goals.

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