The GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC) has rapidly risen to become the flagship tournament for Tongits, the beloved Filipino card game cherished for generations. What began as a familiar pastime has now transformed into an intense, high-stakes esports-style competition that resonates far beyond casual play. Since its inception, the GTCC has captured the imagination of players and fans all across the Philippines, providing a vibrant platform where gaming excellence meets a celebration of Filipino culture and identity.
While many know of its existence, few realize the depth of what the GTCC truly represents. Here, we reveal the top 10 fascinating facets of GTCC that make it a standout event in the world of competitive card gaming, offering insight into how this tournament elevates Tongits into a respected arena for skill, strategy, and community pride.
- From Humble Beginnings to a Dynamic Year-Round Competition
The origins of the GTCC trace back to 2024 with the launch of the Tongits Champion Cup, a pioneering attempt to bring structured esports-styled competition to a game traditionally played at family gatherings and casual meetups. It was an ambitious move that sparked excitement among Filipino card players eager to take their skills to the next level.
By 2025, the tournament evolved significantly, rebranding as the GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup and expanding into a series of annual events rather than a single competition. It now spans multiple thrilling editions throughout the year, including the Summer Showdown, the September Arena, and surprise Tongits showdowns, allowing players the chance to compete continuously. This year-round competitive calendar stimulates player development and fan engagement like never before.
- A Record-Breaking Prize Pool Elevates the Stakes
One of the most remarkable accomplishments of GTCC is its unprecedented prize pool, heightening the excitement and stakes of every match. The upcoming 2025 season boasts a total prize fund of ₱10 million, a staggering amount for Philippine table gaming competitions.
The grand champion walks away with a life-changing ₱5 million, the runner-up earnings are set at ₱1 million, while third place takes home an impressive ₱488,000. Such generous prizes have not only raised the profile of Tongits but have also fostered legitimacy around competitive card gaming within the country’s esports ecosystem.
- A Challenging Yet Fair Pathway to Qualification
GTCC’s prestige comes with stringent requirements for entry, ensuring only the elite players advance while maintaining open accessibility to newcomers. Contestants begin their journey by competing in the Tongits Free Multi-Table Tournament (MTT) through the GameZone app or website.
Spanning several weeks, this qualifier offers free entry and equal footing with provided chips. Players’ performances on daily and weekly leaderboards determine their progression, with only the best earning a coveted spot in the GTCC main event. This rigorous yet fair qualification method ensures that those competing for trophies are truly the top strategists in the Filipino Tongits community.
- A Demand for Skill, Endurance, and Strategic Finesse
GTCC is far from a casual knockout event. Its carefully designed format is a test of mental stamina, strategic depth, and psychological resilience. The competition unfolds over five days and features multiple stages that start with 135 players divided into three groups.
Participants battle through group phases, promotional rounds, semifinals, all leading to a legendary 100-round grand final where just the top three players remain. This demanding setup pushes competitors to maintain focus and adapt strategy under mounting pressure, rewarding the most disciplined and tactical players.
- Fairness Enforced Through Age and Account Rules
To uphold the integrity of the tournament, GTCC requires all players to be at least 21 years old and possess a valid GameZone account. These measures promote compliance with gaming regulations and ensure a secure, fair environment for everyone involved. Verifying eligibility helps organizers maintain a level playing field and enforce anti-cheating policies effectively.
- A Thrilling Multi-Stage Calendar That Keeps the Action Rolling
The GTCC schedule is carefully crafted to maximize competition and accessibility. Beginning July 7, daily tournaments run 24/7 until August 23, giving players the flexibility to qualify anytime they choose. Complementing this are weekly tournaments every Saturday and Sunday evening at 7 PM and 8 PM, starting July 12, which bring a steady rhythm of intense, scheduled face-offs.
Following the qualifiers, the Online Finals take place over three stages from August 24 to 31, culminating in the grand offline finals held live in Manila in mid-September. This calendar ensures continuous engagement and builds anticipation throughout the season.
- Blending Time-Honored Tradition with Modern Esports Technology
Though Tongits is distinctly Filipino and steeped in tradition, the GTCC fully embraces contemporary esports innovations. The GameZone platform enhances player experience with lag-free gameplay, advanced matchmaking, real-time leaderboards, and live streaming complete with professional commentary.
This harmonious blend appeals to generations old and new—connecting passionate veteran players with young digital natives, illustrating how heritage and technology can unite through competitive gaming.
- More Than a Game—A Celebration of Filipino Culture and Community
GTCC is a shining beacon of Filipino spirit and communal pride. The tournament unites players from diverse backgrounds, all converging on the national stage seeking glory. The heartwarming story of 62-year-old Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, the 2025 Summer Showdown champion, beautifully exemplifies this spirit. Benigno’s triumph, alongside his pledge to dedicate his ₱5 million prize towards his wife’s cancer treatment, underscores how the tournament embraces humanity and fosters hope beyond the cards.
- Priority on Skill, Strategy, and Psychological Mastery
Despite the inherent elements of chance in card games, GTCC places immense emphasis on skill and strategy. Success demands mastery of card counting, reading opponents’ subtle cues, making calculated decisions under pressure, and maintaining composure through hours of mental strain.
- Building a Sustainable Competitive Ecosystem
Beyond a tournament series, GTCC is a foundational pillar for the Filipino table gaming industry’s future. By offering substantial monetary rewards and visibility, it inspires year-round skill development among players. It also attracts sponsors and organizers who innovate and invest, while an engaged fan base follows and supports through live streams and interactive events.
Final Thoughts
The GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup stands proudly at the crossroads of Filipino tradition, cutting-edge esports technology, and fierce competitive gaming. Its ongoing evolution, inspiring champions like Benigno De Guzman Casayuran, and colossal prize pools have firmly established GTCC as the premier competitive Tongits event in the Philippines.
Now more than ever, it embodies both the spirit of Filipino culture and the promise of esports innovation. Sharpen your cards, steady your mind, and prepare for the adventure ahead—the next GTCC champion might just be you.
About Author
