JuanCast and The Philippine STAR: A new era of interactive fan engagement

MANILA, Philippines — JuanCast, a revolutionary online platform designed to enhance fan experiences and bring fandoms closer to their idols, has partnered with The Philippine STAR, the country’s leading newspaper, to create a dynamic new approach to fan engagement.

This collaboration is a leap of faith by The Philippine STAR into a partnership with a young startup, according to Lucien Dy Tioco, executive vice president at The STAR.

The partnership’s foundation, as explained by JuanCast founder Junnel Gabriel Oreta, is rooted in a desire to empower fans and celebrate Filipino talent, creating “a way for fans to feel a sense of ownership, a way to contribute to their idols’ success and be part of their journey.”

JuanCast is an online platform that allows users to vote in various polls and contests across a wide range of categories. It’s more than just a simple voting system — it’s a dynamic community where users can express their preferences, support their favorites, and earn rewards for their participation.

The platform uses a virtual currency system (“Stars” and “Suns”) to incentivize engagement.

What is JuanCast?

How does it work? JuanCast operates on a simple yet effective system.

Earning Stars and Suns: Users acquire “Stars” and “Suns” by watching ads, completing tasks, or purchasing them directly. “Stars” are used for smaller polls, while “Suns” are for larger events.

Voting: Users vote in chosen categories using their accumulated currency. The platform ensures transparency and prevents manipulation.

Rewards and recognition: Winners receive recognition and rewards, including potential features in The Philippine STAR.

‘Star Cast Exclusives’

This collaboration represents a shared vision between two organizations committed to celebrating Filipino talent and fostering authentic fan engagement.

Oreta emphasizes the platform’s inclusive nature: “JuanCast is for everyone — Filipino fans, non-Filipino fans, and even emerging artists or groups looking for recognition.”

Dy Tioco explains The STAR’s motivation: “Entertainment has always been part of Philstar’s content spectrum and we feel that ‘Star Cast Exclusives’ is one way of keeping the Philstar brand relevant to its younger audiences.”

He further elaborates on the strategic direction.

“To prove this point, we have been doing this by having our events have a younger vibe, like our annual Truth Festival, the recent Nakakalocal Fashion Fair and Bazaar and the forthcoming She Slay’s Girl Coded,” Dy Tioco says.

“We have been featuring a lot of young KOLs, rising entreps, and P-pop Artists that a lot of our young followers resonate with.”

The partnership’s foundation lies in a mutual commitment to transparency and authenticity. Oreta highlights the platform’s role in providing a safe space for fans.

“One of the unique aspects of JuanCast is that it provides a safe space for fans who might be shy or hesitant to show their support publicly,” he says. “Here, fans can freely share their love, express their passion, and support their idols without fear.”

This aligns with The STAR’s commitment to truthful and authentic content.

Exciting features coming up

What does the future hold for this exciting partnership? According to Oreta, “There is so much to look forward to with The STAR joining us in our vision for JuanCast.”

Key developments fans can look forward to include:

Exclusive promos and deals: Fans can expect exciting promotions and offers

Unforgettable events: “You can expect unforgettable events, such as meet-and-greets, live performances, and one-on-one interactions with your favorite artists — moments that bring fans closer to the people they appreciate and look up to.”

Live streaming feature: A new live streaming feature will allow for real-time interaction between fans and artists. This will “bridge the gap between fans and their idols in a way that’s personal and real.”

StarCast Exclusive: A major poll event, “StarCast Exclusive,” will become a central feature of fan engagement on the platform, providing a “grand stage” for celebrating artists’ talent and fan passion.

Oreta concludes with an optimistic outlook: “This is just the beginning. With The Philippine STAR as our partner, the possibilities are endless. Together, we will continue to grow JuanCast, ensuring it remains a platform that every Juan can enjoy.”