As the third quarter of 2025 unfolds, the GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup (GTCC) continues to dominate the competitive card game scene, reaffirming its reputation as the country’s premier Tongits tournament.
Following the success of its Summer Showdown in June, GameZone Philippines is officially gearing up for its next major event: the GTCC September Arena.
With thousands of players logging in daily, Tongits has transcended from a casual card pastime to a digital battleground.
Whether you’re a seasoned Tongits tactician or a fresh-faced player hoping to test your luck and logic, this guide covers everything you need to know about preparing for the upcoming GTCC event—from mastering gameplay to climbing the tournament leaderboard.
What is Tongits?
Tongits is a three-player Filipino card game derived from rummy.
Known for its mix of skill, strategy, and luck, it’s a game that rewards sharp memory, keen observation, and decisive play.
Over the years, it’s become a fixture in local gatherings—and now, thanks to platforms like GameZone, it’s a full-fledged esport.
Objective
The main goal is to be the first player to discard all your cards—or end the round with the lowest unmatched card total.
Setup
- Played with a standard 52-card deck (no jokers)
- 3 players recommended
- Each player gets 12 cards; the dealer receives 13
- The remaining cards form the draw pile or “bunutan”
Gameplay Breakdown
Opening Move
The dealer begins the round by discarding one card face-up. Players then take turns in a clockwise direction.
Player’s Turn
- Draw a card from either the draw pile or the discard pile.
- Form melds (called “bahay”) such as:
- Three-of-a-Kind: (e.g., 9♣ 9♠ 9♥)
- Straight Flush: (e.g., 3♦ 4♦ 5♦)
- Three-of-a-Kind: (e.g., 9♣ 9♠ 9♥)
- You may also add to other players’ melds using a move called “sapaw.”
- End your turn by discarding one card.
Winning the Round
- Call “Tongits” when you’ve successfully played or added all your cards.
- Call a “Draw” if the draw pile runs out and no Tongits was declared.
- The player with the lowest card total wins in a draw scenario.
Key In-Game Terms
- Sapaw—Adding a card to another player’s meld. Reduces your card total and increases strategic options.
- Sunog—A burned player who hasn’t laid down any melds before a draw is automatically disqualified.
- Agos—A defensive move where a player reveals all melds to avoid being sunog, even without the lowest points.
Pro Tips for Dominating GTCC Tongits
While luck can sway outcomes, GTCC champions consistently show refined skills and smart strategies. Here are expert-level tips to elevate your gameplay:
1. Study Your Opening Hand
Before your first move, evaluate your hand for potential melds. Planning two to three moves ahead can give you an early advantage.
2. Lay Down Melds Early
Putting your first meld on the table early protects you from being burned later in the round. It also sets up opportunities for strategic sapaw.
3. Track the Discards
Always pay attention to what your opponents discard. This gives you clues about their hands and prevents you from feeding them useful cards.
4. Be Selective With Your Discards
Avoid discarding mid-range cards (like 5, 6, 7), which often form the core of straight flushes.
5. Use Sapaw With Caution
While sapaw reduces your card count, avoid revealing too much of your strategy. Only use it when it clearly improves your position.
6. Delay Draw Calls
Only call a draw when you’re fairly certain your card total is the lowest. Drawing too soon can backfire if your opponents have fewer unmatched cards.
7. Master the Bluff
Smart players use discards to mislead. For instance, discarding a card that suggests you’re not building a straight can throw others off your scent.
8. Stay Adaptable
When your original game plan isn’t working, pivot to a different strategy. Tongits is a game of quick thinking and sharp adaptability.
9. Know When to Fold
If your hand is stacked with high cards and opponents are laying down melds, don’t hesitate to fold. Live to play another round with a stronger hand.
10. Practice and Watch Others
The best way to improve is through practice and observation. Watch replays, join casual tables, and learn from both your wins and losses.
How to Join the GTCC September Arena
GameZone’s GTCC tournaments are not just for pros. Newcomers are welcome, and with the right steps, anyone can climb the ranks.
Step 1: Register on GameZone
Head to the official GameZone PH website or download the GameZone app (available on both iOS and Android). Create an account and complete your user profile.
Step 2: Pass the KYC Verification
GameZone requires users to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification to ensure fair play. Applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Not be listed on any exclusion or restriction lists
Step 3: Join the August Qualifiers
GameZone hosts official Tongits Multitable Tournaments (MTT) throughout August. These daily and weekly events act as qualifiers for the GTCC September Arena.
Step 4: Climb the Leaderboards
Consistent performance in these qualifiers earns points toward your national ranking. The more points you collect, the higher your chances of reaching the finals.
Step 5: Earn Your Spot in the Main Event
The top ~100 to 135 players will receive invitations to compete in the GTCC September Arena’s semi-finals and finals. This stage showcases the country’s top Tongits players.
What’s at Stake?
The GTCC isn’t just about bragging rights—though there’s plenty of that to go around. Winners can expect:
- Cash prizes
- Tournament-exclusive perks
- National recognition
- The honor of being among the top Tongits players in the Philippines
Why the GTCC Matters
The GTCC elevates Tongits from the neighborhood tambayan to a structured, respected, competitive platform.
It offers a space for players to hone their skills, demonstrate mastery, and represent Filipino gaming on a broader stage.
Beyond the gameplay, GTCC tournaments foster community and camaraderie.
With each edition, more players step into the spotlight, proving that card games still hold strong cultural and competitive value in the Philippines.
Final Thoughts
Whether you play to win, learn, or simply enjoy the rush of a close match, the GTCC offers a premium space to pursue your Tongits passion.
The September Arena is just around the corner, and now is the time to prepare, practice, and sign up.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Join the ranks of GTCC champions and play your way into the spotlight. Your Tongits journey could start with a single draw—and end with a championship title.
GameZone’s GTCC September Arena awaits. Are you in?