A life changed by a win

Many dream of being wealthy. We want our desires and needs fulfilled, especially because of the realities we face and the struggle to achieve financial stability.

Some people are blessed with luck, like Marie (not her real name), a 32-year-old woman from Mindanao who recently won the biggest prize to date on the BingoPlus platform.

Marie sat down with members of the media to share bits of her life, and her dreams and aspirations following her grand win.

Journey towards the grand prize

Marie lives a simple life. She hails from the province of Bukidnon and was born to parents who farm for a living. Marie works in a construction company in Davao and has a loving family, raising her six-year-old son alongside her partner.

She started playing BingoPlus two years ago after her co-workers told her about it. But she only plays whenever she has extra money. Whenever Marie wins a bingo game, she uses her wins to buy practical things, such as food and clothing for her son. When she wins prizes amounting to P6,000 and P10,000, she uses the money for things she needs to pay for.

One day at work, Marie decided to play during break time. Who would have thought that decision would instantly change her life?

With the P100 she spent on 20 bingo cards, she won the jackpot prize of P154,148,662. Discovering the results in real time, Marie was left shocked and cried when the realization hit. She felt a mix of happiness and nervousness, especially because of the huge amount she won, which comes with a huge responsibility.

Becoming an instant millionaire was not the only new experience Marie recently went through. Her journey to claim her prize entailed several firsts, too: her first time riding an airplane and visiting Manila. Throughout her trip, she held onto prayer for the safety of herself and her family.

Marie believes there’s a reason she received the grand prize; it’s mainly to help other people. “Siguro nga dahil sa hirap ng buhay ngayon po ay may napanalunan. Makatutulong po ako sa mga nangangailangan na mga kamag-anak ko.”

The winner’s plans

Marie has been thinking about the future, especially with her newfound wealth. However, she’s taking things slowly, absorbing and applying the knowledge she learned from BingoPlus’ financial coaching.

“Dapat ang unang gawin ko sa napanalunan ko is pause and plan. Dapat pag-isipan ko muna nang maigi ‘yung napanalunan ko,” Marie shared.

While she navigates the pathways she may explore, her family plays a key role in her future decisions. Whenever she thinks of possible business ventures to enter, she never fails to consider her family members.

With the money she won, Marie wants to secure her child’s future. She hopes that her son will be able to finish his studies.

Responsible gaming, always

Marie’s life will change, hopefully for the better, following her win. While thankful for the opportunity given by the digital entertainment company, she reminds other players to be mindful of gaming and only spend within their means.

“Maglaro lang kayo kapag may extra money kayo, tapos dapat play responsibly talaga.”

Marie’s story might inspire dreamers to also strive for a financially stable life, even a grand one, for some. However, as we tend to our needs and desires, we must remember that her story is a rare occurrence.

If one decides to play and participate in such activities, exercising caution and practicing responsible gaming should be at the top of one’s mind.

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Editor's Note: BrandedUp is designed to provide you with insightful, inspiring, and educational content created by The Philippine STAR in collaboration with brands like BingoPlus.