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HALL of Famer Manny Pacquiao finds himself adrift by his lonesome despite his noble intentions to help develop Filipino boxers through his involvement with the International Boxing Association (IBA).

‘I warned him [Pacquiao],’ Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino told BusinessMirror on Tuesday. ‘The IBA has been ostracized by the IOC and all members of the IOC Family are forbidden from getting involved with that organization.’

The International Olympic Committee expelled the IBA-formerly AIBA for International Amateur Boxing Association-in June 2023 because of ‘governance, financial transparency and integrity.’

The IOC also cited issues on IBA’s ‘dependence on a single sponsor and a lack of reform in its refereeing and judging processes.’

World Boxing is now the IOC-recognized international federation of the sport to which the national association-Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines-is affiliated with its chairman, Ricky Vargas, being a founding director of the new organization.

‘We don’t know why and how he [Pacquiao] got involved with IBA, but we told him that its no longer supported by the IOC,’ Tolentino.

Pacquiao announced that he was appointed vice president of the IBA during one of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the ‘Thrilla in Manila’ at the Araneta City in Cubao.

IBA officials were in town to bestow the position on Pacquiao, who said that his goal with IBA is to further promote and develop boxing especially in the grassroots.

Tolentino said that he was shocked when he learned that the 46-year-old former senator was named IBA vice president saying Pacquiao ‘didn’t get sound advice from his inner circle.’

‘It’s up to him-what he will do with that, but we informed him that we cannot support any disassociated Olympic international federation,’ Tolentino said. ‘That’s moot and academic.’

On being in the same event with Pacquiao and the IBA officials, Tolentino said: ‘I was there to support Eumir [Felix Marcial] because he’s our Olympic bronze medalist.’

‘I had no idea that IBA was there,’ he added.

Marcial beat in his first 10-rounder Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares to snatch the World Boxing Council International middleweight title-it was his seventh straight win as a pro.

The ABAP has also stressed it can’t support Pacquiao as IBA vice president, otherwise the body will be sanctioned by World Boxing and the IOC.

S Maison, the premier luxury lifestyle destination in the Mall of Asia Complex, officially ushers in the most wonderful time of the year with the launch of A Classic Christmas. The event celebrates timeless holiday traditions and marks the start of memorable Christmas experiences for shoppers and guests.

At the heart of the celebration stands S Maison’s 30-foot Christmas pine tree, glowing with hundreds of warm lights. The décor features the classic colors of red, green, and gold, creating a welcoming and elegant atmosphere. Adorning its branches are vivid crimson Cardinal birds, symbolizing love, remembrance, and the joy of the season.

Holiday Highlights at S Maison

The celebration features a live chorale performance during the Christmas Launch and a special Santa Meet and Greet, marking the start of a lineup of festive activities throughout November and December.

Shoppers can join Unwrap the Magic: Christmas Giveaway from October 24 to December 20. For every P5,000 single receipt spent on shopping or dining at S Maison, guests earn one e-raffle entry for a chance to win exclusive prizes such as an Apple Watch SE or a Nespresso Coffee Machine.

Santa Meet and Greet sessions will take place on November 8 and 22, and December 6, 13, and 20 at 6:00 PM. The Holiday Markets and Feasts in the Main Atrium run from November to December, featuring curated gift items and food packages from premium merchants. Every Saturday, guests can enjoy a Grand Fireworks Display at 7:00 PM, followed by a dazzling New Year’s Eve Countdown on December 31 at the Level 2 Veranda.

There is something for everyone. Families can enjoy the dazzling Night of Lights, the Grand Magical Parade, and the Holiday Snowflakes Surprises. Fun-filled events, such as the Santa Run and the Holiday Paw Party, promise excitement for kids and fur parents alike. Every weekend in December, mallgoers can look forward to the Happiest Holiday Weekends featuring carols, meet-and-greets, and more festive fun for everyone. The celebration also includes Santa Meet-and-Greets, the Grand Holiday Fireworks every Saturday at SM By the Bay, and the MOA Christmas Market, filled with gift finds and treats.

S Maison invites everyone to celebrate a season of love, connection, and tradition. Discover A Classic Christmas at S Maison, where timeless elegance meets the warmth of the holidays.

THE 5150 Triathlon Series reaches new shores with the debut of 5150 Camiguin on May 3, 2026, in the island province of Camiguin in Northern Mindanao.

Known as the ‘Island Born of Fire,’ Camiguin is a tropical gem renowned for its seven volcanoes, pristine white sandbars and centuries-old heritage sites.

The 5150 Camiguin will mark another milestone for the Philippines’ growing triathlon community and tourism industry.

Athletes will dive into the crystal-clear waters off Old Catarman, racing past the iconic Sunken Cemetery Monument, one of Camiguin’s most striking landmarks.

The bike course follows a scenic two-loop route along the island’s Circumferential Road, showcasing panoramic coastal views and lush countryside.

The concluding race stage will culminate at the Camiguin Sports Complex, where participants will be greeted by cheering locals and a festive island atmosphere.

Camiguin Governor Xavier Romualdo hailed the 5150 event as a major step forward in promoting the island as a sustainable tourism and sports hub.

Princess Galura, president and general manager of the organizing Sunrise Events Inc., said bringing the 5150 series to Camiguin is not only about racing but sharing the spirit of the island.

Since 2009, SEI-the exclusive licensee of the Ironman brand in the Philippines-has introduced global racing standards to iconic destinations such as Subic Bay, Lapu-Lapu City, Puerto Princesa, Cebu and Manila.

AS sales leaders, our main task is to get our teams to achieve sales goals. But how come some sales professionals are able to successfully breeze through it, while others find it difficult to make the sale? The quick answer is that there simply is no shotgun approach to motivating different individuals in hitting sales targets, even if they are given similar products, tools, skills and opportunities. The key is to approach each sales practitioner with the appropriate mix of tools, skills and mindsets designed to uniquely appeal to specific motivations. Here are three questions that can help you discover the right approach in effectively motivating your team to achieve sales goals.

Is the goal consistent with their ‘whys?’

IN other words, is the reward rewarding enough? I’m not suggesting to add more dough into the pot, though some may indeed ask for it. Rather, is the prize that you’re dangling appealing enough to get the individual to jump into the goal? I can relate with this. During my first couple of years as a sales professional, money was not my primary motivation, and I found it difficult to inspire myself to dive into the abyss of rejections and objections. I had to eventually discover my deepest why before I was able to consistently achieve sales goals. Ultimately, whatever reason it may be (income, learning, growth, experience, pride), it should be consistent with the reasons that an individual has for engaging in the said line of profession. As Jim Rohn mentioned, ‘if your why is powerful, the how is easy.’

Is the goal achievable?

There are times when goals are set so high that it’s already impossible to get to it. While I ascribe to a ‘break-the-ceiling’ mindset, I still recommend a zealous yet practical approach to goal-setting-and that is to set ambitious but achievable targets. Always endeavor to push your team to produce more than their previous accomplishments, but not to the extent of getting them to commit to a quota that’s next to impossible, because by then, you’re just setting them up to fail. Prepare your team for sales success by setting up small wins that would gradually shift to bigger goals over time. Getting them into this kind of pattern will allow the team to develop a mindset of always achieving goals.

Are they having fun?

There’s an old saying that goes ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.’ This is true. And while some may argue that earning a living isn’t a question of having fun, it is also not a question of it being tediously boring. In my experience as a sales leader, I observed that while people work hard to earn a decent living, most chose to resign because it’s no longer fun. Moreover, there are industries where people tend to produce more income when they compete with one another in a fun and enjoyable environment. Perhaps that’s partly the reason Google and other similar organizations created a work environment that’s fun and enjoyable.

But as I said earlier, there is no shotgun approach to get your team to achieve goals. If possible, get to know your individual members, and based on their unique motivations, inspire them by giving goals that are consistent to their whys, goals that are achievable, and a fun environment. God bless!

Far Eastern University rookie Kirby Mongcopa and National University’s Ann Pingol have been voted University Athletic Association of the Philippines Players of the Week.

Mongcopa came up with a game-saving stop on Monty Montebon as FEU held off Adamson for its fourth win of the season, 73-70.

Mongcopa had 11 points, 17 rebounds and four assists against the Soaring Falcons, getting picked for the citation over teammate Janrey Pasaol, Adamson’s Manzano, Rey Allen Torres, La Salle’s Mike Phillips, and NU’s Paul Francisco and Omar John.

Meanwhile, Pingol had a triple-double of 12 points, 11 rebounds and 11 in NU’s 97-67 win over La Salle that sealed a spot in the women’s semifinals.

She earned the POW for the period October 27 to November 2, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and sponsored by Discovery Suites and Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things.

FEU returns to action with Mongcopa leading the charge on Sunday against the UST Growling Tigers, while Pingol and NU battle the Adamson Lady Falcons on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

AS someone who has worked closely with both the government and the private sector, I view the new fiscal regime as an important step towards aligning the mining sector with global standards of transparency, progressivity, and shared prosperity. However, the question remains: Will it truly deliver a fair, competitive, and administratively feasible tax system?

This discussion focuses on the fiscal dimension of the mining reform introduced by Republic Act No. 12253-particularly its implications on tax policy, administration, and compliance.

A complex but fair tax regime

RA 12253 introduces a mixed use of Gross and Margin-Based Taxation that may have its pros and cons. The move from gross output taxation to margin-based royalties is a rational step-it links government take to profitability, not production volume, resulting to risk and financial sharing between the government and the mining company who are, to my mind, joint venturers in this undertaking. This corrects a long-standing distortion where miners paid the same even in downturns. However, margin-based taxation complicates compliance and implementation especially so in a mixed gross and net income-based taxation. Also, under this set-up, the revenue take by the government can be erratic, not stable. The table below summarizes the new tax regime for mining companies:

Under the new structure, royalties outside mining reservations and windfall profits are net-based, while royalties inside reservations, the minimum royalty, and the LGU business tax are computed on gross output. This mix presents most notable pros and cons.

The royalty inside mining reservations is set at 5 percent of gross output. This is a gross-based levy that is simple and straightforward to compute, but it is regressive, as it ignores profitability. By contrast, the royalty outside mining reservations ranges from 1 percent to 5 percent depending on the profit margin. This is net- or margin-based, making it progressive, fair, and rational, although it is more complex to compute.

A new Windfall Profits Tax (WPT) is imposed at 1 percent to 10 percent of net margin which is payable only during high-profit periods. On the reverse, a minimum royalty of 0.10 percent of gross output is imposed when operations are low such as when the margin is 0 percent or less.

In implementing a mixed-based taxation, there is a need to address or tackle several concerns.

First, there is concern on the Administrative and Implementation Readiness. As announced by DOF and BIR, they will start drafting the regulations and conduct public hearings by November and the regulations are to be released by December this year in compliance with the law.

But, is the BIR fully equipped to implement and monitor a margin-based royalty and WPT system- both of which demand robust audit capacity, precise cost allocation, and real-time price validation mechanisms?

The WPT is new and is particularly complex, as it depends on fluctuating metal prices and variable operating costs. Without clear technical rules and upgraded systems, disputes on what constitutes ‘net income from metallic operations’ are inevitable. Along this line, the BIR should consider issuing comprehensive guidelines on prices, allowable deductions, cost attribution, and timing of recognition to ensure consistency and minimize interpretive conflicts.

Equally important is aligning this new fiscal regime on mining with the existing regular tax regime. There are various items that need clarity as the new mining regime interfaces with the computation of annual corporate income tax, VAT, business taxes, among others. How will the new mining-specific levies co-exist with corporate income tax, local business taxes, and other imposts-particularly for consolidated entities with both mining and non-mining operations? How does it interface with the computation of the regular income tax which is entity-based considering the ring-fencing requirement? In the same manner, there should be clarity on the deductibility of royalties and WPT from income tax. Likewise, there is a need to align BIR forms and schedules for quarterly and annual filings.

Another key concern is the Minimum Royalty for Loss-Making Projects. The minimum 0.10 percent royalty on gross output may penalize further loss-making operations that may severely impact the sustainability of the operations. Perhaps the government can grant the same relief or means of recovery as that in Minimum Corporate Income Tax (MCIT) and NOLCO, which are allowed to be credited against future tax payments or can be carried forward as a deduction benefiting future tax liabilities.

The new mining law adopts anti-avoidance measures (ring fencing, transfer pricing and thin capitalization rules) to avert shifting or sharing of revenues resulting in lower royalty payments. Of particular attention is transfer pricing. There is a need to put in place a robust mechanism and real-time price validation as well as risk identification, allocation, or data sharing for the BIR to fully implement an honest-to-goodness transfer pricing audit. For example, what tools will BIR and BOC use to validate export prices and detect transfer pricing among affiliates? Will real-time data from Mining and Geosciences Board (MGB) or customs be integrated? An inter-agency data sharing, real-time invoice tracking, are necessary.

In summary, I have the following suggested focus areas for BIR to consider: 1. implementation readiness and staff training; 2. administrative feasibility and audit capacity for the WPT; 3. transfer pricing and ring fencing; 4. clear guidelines on areas interfacing with current regular tax regime, especially on margin computation, deductibility of royalties and windfall profits, and cost attribution; 5. clarity on the recoupment mechanisms for losses and minimum royalty payments under NOLCO and MCIT in the current tax regime; and 6. investor safeguards, policy and rules/implementation stability, and long-term consistency.

Automatic LGU revenue release is good but there is concern on weak LGU absorptive capacity.

Direct and timely release of the 40 percent LGU share is an excellent provision to promote local empowerment-provided it is accompanied by fiscal discipline and absorptive capacity-building. Despite improved revenue disbursements, many local governments lack the capacity to manage large funds effectively, risking misallocation without enhanced fiscal transparency and national government support and planning.

Consider a balanced ring-fencing and anti-avoidance measures

The law’s provisions on ring-fencing, thin capitalization, and transfer pricing reflect a more mature and disciplined tax regime. Treating each mining project as a separate taxable entity promotes transparency and prevents cross-subsidization, while the related-party and thin capitalization rules safeguard the tax base from profit shifting and artificial deductions.

However, ring fencing may reduce investment flexibility which may discourage exploration and expansion and may dis-incentivize smaller and newer projects to come in as they struggle financially without group support. Strict ring-fencing results to inefficiency limiting economies of scale or underutilization of capital.

Thus, the government may consider a balanced ring fencing in its application. For example, it can be on a phased or gradual implementation, or a targeted application, or allow transitional provisions. The IRR can perhaps authorize the Secretary of Finance to lay down situations or instances when ring fencing may be suspended, or applied gradually, or partially like allowing loss offsetting among projects for a limited time especially during the early stage of cost recovery.

A balanced ring-fencing framework that protects public revenue without penalizing or disincentivizing legitimate business operations is encouraged.

Closing reflection

RA 12253 is a milestone in balancing fiscal prudence, environmental stewardship, and community participation. The real challenge lies not in what the law says-but in how faithfully and intelligently it will be implemented.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the Tatak Pinoy Strategy (TPS), a multiyear national industrial roadmap that aims to ‘strengthen’ key sectors, create jobs, and lift Filipino products to global standards, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Signed through Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 104 on October 24, the measure directs all government agencies to give preference to local products and services in their procurement.

In a statement on Monday, DTI explained that under the Strategy, local suppliers can be awarded contracts if their bids are within 25 percent of the lowest foreign offer.

‘This measure ensures that the government’s purchasing power directly supports Filipino enterprises,’ added the Trade department.

DTI, the agency leading the program, said the TPS serves as a ‘national framework for industrial transformation’ anchored on five pillars: people, infrastructure, technology and innovation, investments, and sound financial management.

For her part, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque, who also chairs the Tatak Pinoy Council, said the Strategy opens new opportunities for local industries to scale and compete globally.

‘The TPS empowers our MSMEs and industries to innovate with purpose, produce with pride, and compete globally with confidence. We thank the President for his swift approval of this landmark policy that will boost our economy and generate more jobs for Filipinos,’ Roque said.

According to DTI, plans and priorities are ‘clearly outlined’ in the TPS framework to help domestic enterprises become more globally competitive, including nine priority sectors identified for their potential to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth and industrial development.

The nine priority sectors under the Tatak Pinoy Strategy are: IT-BPM; Food and Agro-processing; Cement, Steel, and Construction Materials; Semiconductors; Electronics and Electrical Devices; Automotive, E-Vehicles, and Automotive Components; Pharmaceuticals, Diagnostics, and Health Products; Defense Manufacturing; Chemicals and Industrial Inputs.

According to the TPS, these sectors were selected based on their export potential, domestic value-added, employment generation, and alignment with global value chains.

COLLEGE of Saint Benilde made sure to get its revenge over Mapua in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 101 men’s basketball tournament as the Blazers beat the Cardinals, 75-65, at Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Tuesday.

The Blazers, who lost to Mapua in last year’s Finals, improved to 6-3 won-lost in Group B to keep their hold of the pool’s second seed.

The win gave Benilde some much-needed breathing room in the team standings but coach Charles Tiu wasn’t entirely thrilled.

‘We had to take care of the ball which we did in the first half but we made mind boggling mistakes in the second half,’ he said. ‘Thankfully, we defended well enough to win the game.’

As a team, the Blazers turned the ball over 21 times and also didn’t help their cause that the defending champions had active hands with 10 steals as a squad.

Still, those mistakes weren’t enough to dampen the momentum Benilde built in the first quarter.

The Blazers started out the game hot with an 18-0 lead which Mapua had a tough time dismantling.

The Cardinals were able to finish the third salvo strong, shaving Benilde’s deficit to six, 64-58, but they would only score seven lowly points in the final frame. They never took the lead the entire game.

Tony Ynot powered Benilde with an all-around game of 25 points, eight rebounds, three assists and a steal, while reigning MVP Allen Liwag also recorded a double-double in the win with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Cyrus Cuenco finished with 14 points and seven rebounds and Earl Sapasap scored for Mapua, which, despite crumbling to a 4-5 card in Group A, still remained as the second seed behind Perpetual Help (8-1).

THE performance of the Philippine industry, alongside infrastructure scandals and global uncertainty, may have dragged down the growth of the Philippine economy in the third quarter of 2025, according to Department of Economy, Planning, and Development of the Philippines (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

The country’s socioeconomic planning chief pointed out: ‘The industry is probably at its lowest point in recent years.’

‘I am not as optimistic as I used to be or as I have been given the data that has been coming out in recent weeks, particularly the performance of our industry,’ Balisacan told reporters on the sidelines of the 2025 Presidential Filipinnovation Awards National Competition press briefing on Monday.

Asked if the country’s growth rate will still be over 5 percent, the country’s socioeconomic planning chief said he would not want to preempt the final numbers, as the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) will present the 2025 Third Quarter Performance of the Philippine economy on Friday, November 7.

Still, Balisacan did not falter when he said: ‘It was a challenging quarter,’ adding, ‘I would have expected [that], given all these scandals in the infrastructure, that you would expect [to weigh on] government spending particularly on construction, fixed capital formation.’

Other areas that may have slowed down, he added, would be the industry and services.

‘It’s partly, I suppose because we’re coming from global uncertainty, the effects of other factors. Of course, the typhoons and so many other things. So we’ll see if that assessment will come out,’ added Balisacan.

Moving forward, he said, ‘We are still looking at where those potential drags are and see if these are just temporary; and that we recover those grounds in the coming quarters.’

Meanwhile, the country’s socioeconomic planning chief called the country’s 6 percent GDP growth potential ‘quite high,’ adding that reaching this would mean facing head-on headwinds which are causing uncertainty.

‘Our economic fundamentals have remained strong. The potentials have remained strong. Our GDP growth potential is quite high, 6 percent and above. But reaching those potentials is another matter.and those are affected by instability, uncertainty. We’ll see,’ he pointed out.

In recent weeks, research institutions and think tanks have revealed their expectations regarding the country’s third quarter economic performance this year.

For one, the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA and P) in its latest Market Call report said the economy may slow down to a 5.2 percent pace in the third quarter due to ‘more weather disturbances and the popular uproar over the flood control corruption controversy.’

Meanwhile, ANZ Research said declining sales of passenger cars and consumer goods imports may have dragged the economy’s growth in the third quarter, adding that the ongoing corruption probe is likely to weigh on public infrastructure spending from fourth quarter onwards. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/11/03/sliding-consumer-goods-car-sales-may-slow-q3-growth/)

In an interview with reporters two weeks ago, Balisacan said he sees ‘a bit of a slowdown’ in the economy in the third quarter, due to supply shocks such as typhoons and work suspensions.

However, the country’s socioeconomic planning chief hopes the economy’s growth rate in the third quarter will not be slower than the 5.5 percent posted in the second quarter.

The country’s leading digital entertainment platform, BingoPlus, has made a historic impact on the Philippine sports and golf scene with its all-out support for the recently concluded International Series Philippines.

Marking a milestone debut in the country, the International Series made its Philippine stop with a month-long celebration led by BingoPlus-delivering world-class golf and premier sports entertainment that brought global and local fans together in one unforgettable experience.

Forging Golf Excellence

The prestigious golf tournament was formalized in late 2024 through a partnership between International Series Head Rahul Singh and AB Leisure Exponent Inc. (ABLE) President Rafael Jasper Vicencio. After a year of preparation, the much-anticipated International Series Philippines (ISP) unfolded in a four-day tournament from October 23 to 26 at the Sta. Elena Golf and Country Estate in Laguna.

The celebration officially kicked off with a press conference on October 21 in Pasay City, attended by company executives and professional golf players. Joining Vicencio and Singh were Asian Tour Commissioner and CEO Cho Minn Thant, alongside golfers John Catlin, Marc Leishman, Taichi Kho, and Peter Uihlein.

Following the press event was a Filipino-themed gala night, featuring a welcome toast led by key executives – Singh, Thant, DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco, DigiPlus CEO Tommy Hu, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, PSC Chairman Patrick C. Gregorio, and PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco.

In his opening remarks, Tanco emphasized the historic collaboration between the International Series Philippines and BingoPlus. ‘We are bringing exquisite, high-quality, and world-class golf experiences closer to Filipinos.’, he said.

The evening also showcased Filipino artistry through a cultural fashion show and kundiman performances by Jed Madela, adding a distinct local flair to the international event.

Earlier, on September 24, media partners were treated to a one-day golf experience at Sta. Elena Golf, symbolically opening the season-long media partnership for the tournament’s coverage.

To further highlight the partnership, a symbolic handover of a golf club took place on October 26 between Singh, Hu, and Tengco, marking the conclusion of the tournament. During the ceremony, ISP expressed its gratitude to BingoPlus and Filipino fans for their unwavering support throughout the historic Philippine leg.

Win for Filipino

There’s no better way to start this historic sports event than to bring golf closer and relatable to the Filipinos. This is what’s behind the announcement of the Filipino golf ambassador of the number one sportsbook in the country, ArenaPlus, the three-time Asian Tour winner Miguel Tabuena, launched on October 21.

Tabuena is among the pool of Filipinos competing in the Philippine leg of IS. Playing on his home course at Sta. Elena Golf Club, the 31-year-old golfer delivered a stellar performance with rounds of 69, 65, 65, and 65 – highlighted by five eagles and a hole-in-one – to claim his 22nd professional title.

Cheered on by a passionate home crowd, Tabuena triumphed over top contenders Sarit Suwannarut and Sampson Zheng, dedicating the win to his family, fans, and ArenaPlus. Beyond victory, he reaffirmed his commitment to grow golf in the Philippines and inspire the next generation of Filipino athletes.

‘It means a lot to be able to play on home soil and a dream come true to be coming into the tournament and get the win,’ he said. ‘At the end of the day it’s always nice to see a Filipino flag at the top.’

Meanwhile, as talented Filipino golfers grew in number, the brand created the Future Ace program. This aimed to further strengthen the path of aspiring Filipino golfers closer to their dream. BingoPlus selected 20 people who registered for the program, of whom the final three were given a ?200,000 training fund, ?100,000 worth of golf equipment, and an opportunity to play with international players during the professional-amatuer (Pro-Am) tournament on October 22.

Joined by professional golfers and champions such as Dustin Johnson and Patrick Reed, the Pro-Am tournament brought together executives and partners for an enjoyable round on the 18-hole course. The event was designed to boost the growing golf scene in the Philippines, providing participants with an opportunity to engage in friendly competition and practice ahead of the four-day tournament.

A Celebration Beyond the Fairway

The Filipino sports celebration broke new ground by blending golf with top-tier entertainment, creating a one-of-a-kind sporting experience.

In the lead-up to the International Series Philippines (ISP) week, ISP and BingoPlus brought the golf experience closer to communities through a four-leg caravan held from October 12 to 22, filled with fun activities, excitement, and live performances by top Filipino artists. Among the featured performers were actors Tony Labrusca, Teejay Marquez, Derek Monasterio, Klea Pineda, Lance Carr, and the boyband YML, along with Jelai Andres, Dustine Mayores, Bont Bryan, Baninay, and Elyson De Dios.

The excitement continued with a three-day mall show from October 21 to 23, which showcased dynamic performances from boy groups 1621 and VXON, along with Claire Ruiz, Fana, and OPM bands Lily, Soapdish, and Hale.

The celebration culminated on October 25 at the Aseana City Concert Grounds, where ISP and BingoPlus successfully staged the International Series Music Festival presented by BingoPlus, a grand spectacle that fused music, sports, and charity in one unforgettable night.

Held under the theme ‘Swing for Filipino Sports Dream’, the festival gathered global and local icons, including EDM superstar Alan Walker, Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas, and OPM favorites Bamboo, Parokya ni Edgar, Urbandub, Sandwich, and Lily. The event also featured electrifying sets from DJs Arthur Tan, Hoest, and DJ Kiara, alongside high-energy performances by world champion dance crews A-Team and UPeepz.

‘What I hope everyone would go home with is a sense of joy from their time at the festival – not just from my performance, but from everyone in the lineup,’ shared Alan Walker in an interview. ‘The most important thing for me is that they go home feeling good.’

Meanwhile, the excitement continued at the Sta. Elena Golf and Country Estate, where BingoPlus amped up the tournament atmosphere with pocket concerts featuring top DJs, a VIP lounge, and interactive booths that entertained guests throughout the tournament week.

These jam-packed golf entertainment experiences built up to a countrywide celebration that seamlessly blended sports, music, and Filipino pride, marking another milestone for BingoPlus in championing both sports and entertainment in the Philippines.

Swinging Through Communities

To mark the festivities, the International Series Philippines (ISP) and BingoPlus brought the spirit of celebration to various communities, ensuring an engaging and entertaining golf experience for fans across the country.

four-leg caravan toured around Luzon, with stops in San Ildefonso, Bulacan (October 12), Porac, Pampanga (October 19), Caloocan City (October 21), and Calamba, Laguna (October 22). Alongside exciting activities and live performances, attendees enjoyed interactive games and raffle draws, winning prizes such as mobile phones, tablets, smart TVs, and home appliances.

Adding to the excitement, fun-filled mall shows were held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall (October 21-23) and SM City Sta. Rosa (October 21-26). Mallgoers participated in golf-inspired games and daily raffles for a chance to win premium prizes, including a 55-inch TV, gift certificates, an iPad 11th Gen, and a Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro.

The celebration reached its peak during the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus Music Festival, where attendees were treated to exclusive merchandise, interactive booths from BingoPlus, the BingoPlus Foundation, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, as well as complimentary snacks. The night’s highlight was an exciting raffle with a ?5 million prize pool, where 100 winners took home ?10,000 each, and four lucky participants became instant millionaires, winning ?1 million apiece.

Empowering Sports Dreams

Beyond the tournament’s excitement, the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus underscored its commitment to advancing local sports development through meaningful donations.

On October 21, a ceremonial check turnover was held, led by the International Series Philippines, BingoPlus, and the BingoPlus Foundation, to support aspiring Filipino golfers. BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director Angela Camins-Wieneke turned over USD 100,000 to Anthony Kang, Board Member of the Asian Development Tour, and USD 50,000 to Myka Romulo, Executive Director of the National Golf Association of the Philippines.

Continuing the momentum, another highlight on October 25 during the International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus Music Festival was the turnover of ?8 million to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

‘Beyond the beats and lights, BingoPlus is turning the celebration into a meaningful cause. The proceeds will go toward supporting Filipino sports development programs, reinforcing the organizations’ (ISP, BingoPlus, and BingoPlus Foundation) shared advocacy to uplift Filipino athletes, promote grassroots development, and elevate local talent to global recognition.’ said ABLE President Vicencio.

International Series Philippines 2026 with BingoPlus

ABLE President Vicencio also announced the continuation of BingoPlus’ commitment for next year’s tournament, solidifying its role as a key driver in promoting world-class golf in the country.

‘We are thrilled to announce that we will continue our partnership with the International Series Philippines in 2026! Truly, we’ve set the standard this year, and we aim to elevate the experience even further next year,’ said Vicencio.