Casino Plus makes history with Evolution's first-ever offline collaboration in the Philippines

Casino Plus, one of the country’s leading responsible digital entertainment platforms licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), has made history as the first operator to stage an offline collaboration with Evolution in the Philippines, taking a partnership built online over nearly five years into a live setting for the first time.

Casino Plus hosted the historic, invitation-only event on October 30 at Dusit Thani, Makati City, Philippines, where Casino Plus players received an exclusive preview of Game Night, Evolution's newest live casino game show, ahead of its commercial release. The evening also included an awarding ceremony led by Cristina Hsia, Evolution's Country Manager for the Philippines, alongside the Casino Plus CEO. 

“This is a historic first for Casino Plus and for the Philippine market,” said Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma.“Evolution's decision to bring its first-ever offline collaboration in the country to Casino Plus reflects years of consistent work under PAGCOR's regulatory framework. For our players, it is assurance that the platform they use every day is held to the standards of one of the most established names in live casino. For the industry, it shows what a regulated Philippine operator and a global supplier can build together.”

Why Casino Plus was first

Casino Plus began its partnership with Evolution in 2022 with slot games and expanded its online casino offerings to include Evolution's live casino portfolio in May 2023. Evolution, listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and active in regulated markets worldwide, conducts due diligence before entering customer relationships and continues to evaluate partners over time.

Gionata La Torre, Evolution CEO Asia, described Casino Plus as the company's “trusted partner in the regulated Philippine market” and “the natural choice” for its first offline engagement in the country.

“We value their reliability, how they run their platform, and their commitment to responsible gaming and the player experience,” La Torre said. “Our decision to work with Casino Plus on this milestone reflects the trust we have built in the relationship and the standards we have seen through our years of working together.”

Spytma said the partnership was earned through conduct rather than claims. “Trust is not something we announce. It is something partners like Evolution see in how we operate every day, under PAGCOR's rules,” he said. “Integrity is the foundation of everything we build, and this collaboration is what that looks like from the outside.”

A regulated operator with international reach

The collaboration adds an international proof point to the compliance record Casino Plus has built under PAGCOR, including Know Your Customer verification, anti-money laundering controls and a ₱1-billion PhilFirst Surety Bond Protection Program for qualified player funds launched in December 2025.

It also places Casino Plus at the centre of Evolution's growing Philippine presence. The supplier opened its first live casino studio in Asia, in Cebu, in 2025, and La Torre said the country is “a key part of our growth in Asia.”

Casino Plus and Evolution described the event as the beginning of a longer-term partnership, with plans to continue developing new gaming experiences for Filipino players. “Our biggest goal is to keep building our relationship over time and create experiences that matter to Filipino players,” La Torre said.

“A historic first only matters if it leads somewhere. Game Night is the first chapter, not the last,” Spytma said. “This is a milestone for the regulated Philippine market as much as for Casino Plus. It shows global suppliers that licensed local operators are ready to build world-class experiences with them.”

What it means for Casino Plus players

Casino Plus players were the first in the country to see Game Night, which adapts the format of a classic games night into a live casino game show. It is built around a 54-segment money wheel, with multipliers on every spin and five bonus games: Connect 4, Battleship, Hungry Hungry Hippos, Snakes and Ladders, and Rock Paper Scissors.

Evolution said it plans, where possible, to offer Casino Plus players early access to selected new Evolution games, alongside continued joint online and offline campaigns in the Philippines.

“Our mission is to bring fun to people, and to do it responsibly,” Spytma said. “Taking Evolution's games off the screen and into the room for our players is that mission at its best. They deserve experiences built to global standards, and that is what we intend to keep delivering.”

“For Evolution, partnering with Casino Plus means taking a relationship we have built over several years and bringing it to life in a new way for Filipino players,” La Torre said. “We share a focus on quality, innovation, responsible gaming and the player experience.”

Casino Plus began its partnership with Evolution in November 2021 with slot games and expanded its online casino offerings to include Evolution's live casino portfolio in May 2023.

RESPONSIBLE GAMING ADVISORY

In accordance with PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice, Casino Plus wishes to remind all players of the following:

Gaming is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered a source of income or a means of financial relief. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and within their means.

Winning is never guaranteed. All gaming outcomes are determined by chance. Past results, including jackpot wins, do not influence or predict future outcomes.

Gaming is for persons 21 years old and above only. Gambling can be addictive. Know when to stop. For assistance, email ResponsibleGaming@pagcor.ph.

About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.

Casino Plus is a PAGCOR-licensed online gaming platform in the Philippines that provides secure, regulated, and responsible digital entertainment for Filipino players. Guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection, the company is committed to a fair and engaging experience backed by verified payouts. Through its continued expansion, Casino Plus has become one of the country’s leading online gaming platforms, pairing entertainment with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

ABOUT EVOLUTION

Evolution is a global B2B provider of online casino entertainment, known for creating and growing the online live casino category. Founded in 2006, the company employs more than 22,000 people across 27 studios on six continents, including its live casino studio in Cebu, Philippines. Its group brands include Evolution, NetEnt, Red Tiger, Ezugi, Big Time Gaming, Nolimit City, Sneaky Slots and DigiWheel. Evolution is headquartered in Sweden and listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

Research for Nation Building: Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan’s legacy

 

 Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan is a leading Southeast Asian development economist and public servant who received the Outstanding SEARCA Scholarship Alumni (OSSA) Award in Research from the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture. Beginning his academic journey with a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 1982, he dedicated his career to addressing the socioeconomic challenges confronting smallholder farmers and vulnerable rural households. Rather than treating economic growth merely as an abstract statistic, he shifted the paradigm of poverty measurement across the Philippines and East Asia from simple headcount tallies to assessing the actual depth and severity of deprivation. By demonstrating the complex links between agricultural issues, income distribution, and regional inequality, his research provided crucial evidence for universities, development banks, and government institutions, earning him a dedicatory Festschrift in 2022. Dr. Balisacan successfully bridged the gap between academic scholarship and state governance, utilizing rigorous data in leadership roles such as Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) to enact targeted social protection policies, enhance market competition, and modernize agriculture.

Dr. Balisacan is widely regarded as one of the region’s leading development economists. He received the Outstanding SEARCA Scholarship Alumni (OSSA) Award in Research from the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). This award honors alumni whose work shows both academic excellence and a strong commitment to serving society.

Purpose-driven economics

Dr. Balisacan started his academic path with a SEARCA graduate scholarship at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), where he earned his Master of Science in Agricultural Economics in 1982. During his time at UPLB, he developed a strong interest in the welfare of smallholder farmers and the complex social and economic issues facing rural households.

This early foundation shaped his later doctoral and postdoctoral research and led him to question traditional macroeconomic ideas. Rather than seeing economic growth as just a national statistic, Dr. Balisacan focused on how policy decisions directly affect the lives of the most vulnerable.

Redefining the metrics of poverty and inequality

Over many years, Dr. Balisacan changed how researchers study poverty in the Philippines and East Asia. He helped introduce new ways to analyze poverty that go beyond simply counting poor people, focusing instead on the depth and severity of deprivation.

By exploring how income distribution, regional inequality, and farming issues connect, his research gave policymakers the solid evidence they needed to create focused and effective programs. His work on inclusive growth, modernizing agriculture, and rural development became key references for universities, development banks, and government agencies across Asia. In 2022, a special Festschrift honored his lasting impact on development economics.

Translating research into national transformation

Dr. Balisacan stands out for his unique ability to connect academic research with government leadership. In his top public service roles, especially as Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), he has used data and careful analysis to guide laws and reforms. His research has directly shaped programs for modernizing agriculture, improving market competition, and creating targeted social protection policies.

One of the biggest examples of his research-based leadership was his key role in creating AmBisyon Natin 2040, the country’s long-term development plan. Built on solid data and the hopes of citizens, this plan set out a shared vision for a fair and poverty-free society where every Filipino can live securely and comfortably.

A living testament to scholarship in service of society

Dr. Balisacan’s journey reflects SEARCA’s full-circle commitment to cultivating agricultural leaders and professionals. From a young scholar mastering agricultural economics in Los Baños to leading SEARCA as its Director, and ultimately steering national economic planning, his career illustrates the transformative power of evidence-based policymaking.

His 2026 OSSA award honors a lasting legacy. It shows that when academic rigor meets strong values and public service, research becomes more than theory—it becomes the foundation for a fairer, more prosperous nation.

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About Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA)

The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) is a non-profit organization established in 1966 by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO). As SEAMEO's center of excellence in agriculture, SEARCA is mandated to provide high-quality graduate study in agriculture; promote, undertake, and coordinate research programs related to the needs and problems of the Southeast Asian region; and disseminate the findings of agricultural research and experimentation.

What Happens When You Experience Singapore Beyond the Usual Itinerary

 

 Singapore's iconic skyline and famous attractions are worth experiencing. But for travelers who prefer to follow their curiosity, some of the most memorable discoveries happen when they venture beyond the usual sightseeing checklist.

Think creative spaces that reward a closer look, heritage destinations that reveal the stories behind a neighborhood, and unexpected stops that turn a regular day out into something worth remembering. For independent travelers, Singapore isn't just a destination to see — it's a city to explore on their own terms.

Through their partnership, Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) invite Filipino travelers to discover more of Singapore, with experiences that go beyond the familiar and make room for personal interests, spontaneous detours, and unexpected favorites.

And with up to 20% OFF flights to Singapore with PAL, available for booking from October 26 to November 1, 2026, there's another reason to plan a getaway that follows your own curiosity.

Trade the Usual Checklist for Something Unexpected

One of the best ways to experience Singapore differently is to make room for places that offer more than a quick photo stop. Instead of moving from one landmark to the next, choose destinations that let you explore a particular interest, discover a new perspective, or simply spend time somewhere that catches your attention.

At New Bahru, an independent traveler can explore a creative lifestyle destination bringing together independent brands, retail concepts, and food experiences. It's a worthwhile addition for those who enjoy discovering places with a distinct creative character and unique local brands, rather than sticking to conventional shopping stops.

For a different kind of outing, WEAVE at Resorts World Sentosa brings together one-of-a-kind retail, dining, and destination experiences in a contemporary setting. It offers another reason to explore beyond the usual attraction itinerary, especially for travelers who enjoy pairing sightseeing with shopping and food discoveries.

These destinations aren't simply stops to tick off a list. They're opportunities to discover different sides of Singapore, guided by what interests you most.

Discover the Stories Behind the Streets

Going beyond the usual itinerary doesn't always mean finding somewhere new. Sometimes, it means looking more closely at a place you thought you already knew.

At the Chinatown Heritage Centre, travelers can explore the stories of Singapore's early residents and gain a deeper understanding of the lives that shaped the historic district. It adds context to a walk through Chinatown, turning a neighborhood visit into an opportunity to connect with the city's past.

Rather than simply photographing the area's familiar streets, take time to explore the heritage behind them. It's a reminder that the places we pass through often have stories worth discovering — if we make room to look.

Follow Your Curiosity into Unexpected Experiences

Independent travel is an opportunity to make every itinerary your own. In Singapore, familiar sightseeing can go hand in hand with playful, immersive, and unexpected discoveries that add a personal twist to your trip.

At IMBA at Gardens by the Bay, travelers can add an immersive art experience to a visit to one of Singapore's best-known destinations. For pop-culture enthusiasts, Pop Mart Cafe offers another themed stop to explore, adding a playful detour to a day spent discovering the city.

These experiences bring a different kind of variety to an itinerary. One stop might appeal to your interest in art or immersive environments, while another might be driven by a favorite character, a new concept, or simply the curiosity to try something different.

The point isn't to do everything. It's to leave enough room for the discoveries that make the trip feel personal.

Let the Experience Set the Pace

Adventure also goes beyond the attractions. Sometimes, changing your surroundings or taking a different route is enough to make the day feel new.

At Henderson Waves, Singapore's distinctive pedestrian bridge offers an opportunity to enjoy its sculptural architecture and surrounding greenery. It's a different way to experience the city — one that gives independent travelers a chance to slow down, take in their surroundings, and enjoy a break from the busier parts of the itinerary.

Build a Singapore Trip Around What You Love

The beauty of independent travel is that there's no single itinerary you have to follow. You can spend the day exploring creative spaces, move from heritage discoveries to a themed café, or balance active experiences with quieter moments in the city.

For some travelers, that might mean starting at New Bahru, discovering the stories behind Chinatown, and ending the day with a drink at Native Bar. For others, it could mean exploring WEAVE, trying an activity at Hyperdrive, or taking a detour to Pop Mart Cafe. Each route offers a different way to experience Singapore — and that's precisely the point.

Rather than trying to see everything, choose the experiences that speak to you, then leave room for something unexpected along the way.

Discover More of Singapore with PAL

Singapore offers more than a familiar list of landmarks. From creative destinations and heritage discoveries to immersive experiences and unexpected detours, the city gives independent travelers plenty of ways to make a trip their own.

Through their partnership, PAL and STB invite Filipinos to look beyond the usual itinerary and discover the experiences that make Singapore worth exploring in their own way.

With PAL, the experience begins with the journey. Its full-service offering, complemented by comfortable seats, inflight services, and signature Filipino hospitality, brings travelers closer to the discoveries waiting in Singapore. Specific amenities and services depend on the selected flight.

So go beyond the checklist. Follow your curiosity, take the detour, and discover a different side of Singapore with PAL.

Book your flights to Singapore with Philippine Airlines from October 26 to November 1, 2026, and get up to 20% OFF for travel from November 1, 2026 onwards.

Explore Singapore beyond the usual at philippineairlines.com.

About Backpack Solutions, Inc.

UNA by Backpack Solutions is a Philippine-based content studio and "un_agency" specializing in storytelling, creative strategy, and brand execution.

From Cultural Discoveries to Family Adventures: Experience Singapore in Full

 

Singapore's character is shaped by the cultures, communities, and traditions that have come together across generations. From heritage districts and historic landmarks to neighborhood food and distinctive architecture, the city offers more than places to visit—it offers stories to discover.

For travelers looking to understand Singapore beyond its skyline, the experience begins with exploring the places that preserve its heritage, tasting the flavors that reflect its cultural influences, and seeing how tradition continues to shape the city today.

Through their partnership, Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) invite Filipino travelers to discover these different layers of Singapore, with experiences that bring together cultural discovery, nature, food, and contemporary attractions.

With up to 20% OFF flights to Singapore with PAL, available for booking from October 26 to November 1, 2026, there's another reason to discover the destination from a different perspective.

1. Step Into the Stories Behind Singapore’s Neighborhoods

A walk through Chinatown offers more than colorful streets and traditional storefronts. At the Chinatown Heritage Centre, visitors can explore the stories of early residents and gain a closer understanding of the people, histories, and everyday lives that helped shape the neighborhood. Beyond the heritage centre, exploring Chinatown’s streets, shops, and food spots brings its history into the present.

Singapore’s cultural influences extend across its neighborhoods, where communities, traditions, and local businesses continue to shape everyday life. 

In Little India, colorful streets, traditional shops, and Indian food offer a vibrant introduction to Indian culture. Kampong Gelam brings together Malay heritage, historic landmarks, and a contemporary creative scene, while Katong–Joo Chiat is known for its distinctive shophouses and Peranakan heritage. 

Together, these neighborhoods reveal the many layers of Singapore’s cultural identity, offering travelers a richer understanding of the city beyond its landmarks.

2. Taste the Stories Behind Singapore's Food

Food offers another way to understand Singapore's cultural influences. The city's dining scene brings together flavors and traditions shaped by different communities, making a meal an opportunity to discover more about the destination.

At Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, travelers can enjoy a comforting local favorite, while Keng Eng Kee Seafood serves up shared dishes that bring people together over Singaporean flavors. For those looking to explore the city after dark, Native Bar offers creative cocktails inspired by local ingredients and Southeast Asian flavors, adding another dimension to Singapore’s vibrant food and drink scene.

These experiences are part of what makes neighborhood food stops worthwhile: they give travelers a chance to slow down, discover local flavors, and experience the city through something people naturally come together around.

Rather than treating dining as a break between attractions, make it part of the cultural itinerary. A meal can offer a different kind of insight into Singapore—one that begins with what is served at the table and extends to the stories behind the food.

3. Discover Nature, Dinosaurs, and Imagination

Singapore’s green spaces offer more than scenic views. At Cloud Forest in Gardens by the Bay, visitors can explore the Jurassic World: The Experience exhibition, where prehistoric creatures bring an exciting twist to the lush indoor landscape.

For another kind of immersive adventure, IMBA at Gardens by the Bay invites visitors to step into imaginative environments that spark curiosity and wonder. Together, these experiences offer a fresh perspective on Singapore, blending nature, creativity, and discovery in unexpected ways.

After exploring, Hortus offers a chance to recharge with a meal surrounded by greenery. Its garden setting makes it a fitting stop to slow down, enjoy the surroundings, and take a break between adventures.

For something different after dark, Hopscotch serves creative cocktails inspired by local icons and Singaporean stories, adding a playful, locally inspired touch to the city’s food and drink scene.

4. See How Heritage and Contemporary Life Come Together

One of Singapore's defining qualities is the way its heritage exists alongside contemporary culture. And for travelers, this means cultural discovery doesn't have to end after visiting a heritage site. It can continue through a neighborhood walk, a meal at a local restaurant, or a closer look at how a district has developed over time.

The most rewarding itineraries leave room for both: learning about the stories that shaped Singapore and experiencing the city as it is today.

Experience Singapore in Full with PAL

From exploring the stories behind Chinatown to discovering the distinct character of Singapore's cultural neighborhoods and tasting the food that brings people together, the destination offers many ways to look beyond the familiar.

Through their partnership, PAL and STB invite Filipino travelers to discover Singapore's cultural richness alongside its nature, dining, and contemporary experiences.

With PAL, the experience begins with the journey. Its full-service offering, complemented by comfortable seats, inflight services, and signature Filipino hospitality, helps bring travelers closer to the stories and experiences waiting in Singapore. Specific services and amenities depend on the selected flight.

Discover the heritage, flavors, and experiences that make Singapore distinctive—and experience more of the destination with PAL.

Book your flights to Singapore with Philippine Airlines from October 26 to November 1, 2026, and get up to 20% OFF for travel from November 1, 2026 onwards.

Discover the Full Singapore Experience at philippineairlines.com.

About Backpack Solutions, Inc.

UNA by Backpack Solutions is a Philippine-based content studio and "un_agency" specializing in storytelling, creative strategy, and brand execution.