In an impressive display of dominance, SIBOL’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang team emerged victorious in the 15th IESF World Esports Championship Asia Qualifier, securing a grand final spot after a resounding 3-0 victory over Mongolia.

Sibol demonstrated resiliance

The Filipino squad, comprised of AP Bren players, showcased their prowess throughout the qualifier, dropping only one game in their path to the finals. Mongolia, lacking an MPL in their region, put up a valiant fight in the upper bracket final, managing to win one game against the formidable SIBOL.

Undeterred by the challenge, SIBOL demonstrated resilience and emerged triumphant in the closely contested decider, earning their spot in the grand final. In the lower bracket final, Mongolia secured a 2-1 win against Cambodia, earning them a chance to face off against SIBOL once again in the ultimate showdown.

In the first game, Mongolia opted for a two-support lineup to counter SIBOL’s high burst damage strategy. However, SIBOL’s adept objective control and team play led them to victory as they secured Lord and swiftly marched to the enemy’s base for a decisive win.

The second game saw Mongolia sticking to their two-support strategy, while SIBOL unleashed a powerful wombo-combo lineup. PHI.REQUITANO’s exceptional performance on Beatrix proved pivotal in shutting down Mongolia’s gold laner, ultimately leading to another resounding victory for the Filipino team.

IESF World Esports Championship

In the third and final game, Mongolia gained an early lead, but PHI.REQUITANO’s stellar performance on Brody shifted the tide in SIBOL’s favor. His impressive 11/1/4 KDA allowed the Filipino squad to secure a swift victory at the 13-minute mark.

With this stunning triumph, SIBOL is set to compete against fifteen other countries in the 15th IESF World Esports Championship for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, scheduled to take place from 25 August  to September 3 in Ia?i, Romania. The Philippines’ esports prowess is undoubtedly on the rise, showcasing their dominance in the Asian qualifiers and aiming to make a mark on the global stage.

Sibol highly regarded on international esports circuit

Sibol, well established in the Philippines as one of the best esports teams, has also made waves on the international stage, achieving a podium finish at the 2022 World Esports Championships in Bali. With multiple esports titles under their belt, including Mobile Legends, Dota 2, and StarCraft II, the team has been making a mark in the global esports scene. Notably, Sibol won three gold medals at the recent Southeast Asian Games, showcasing their dominance in the region. The team comprises exceptional players, including Jason Rafael “Jay” Torculas, Allan Sancio “Lusty” Castromayor, Angelo Kyle “Pheww” Arcangel, Jeniel “Haze” Bata-anon, Carlito “Ribo” Ribo, Karl Gabriel “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno, and Kenneth Jiane “Kenji” Villa.

Philippines Esports Organization provides local training and support

The Philippines Esports Organization (PeSO) plays a vital role in standardizing esports in the country by coordinating with international organizations and providing proper training to local players, enabling them to compete on a global level. To nurture indigenous talent, the Lyceum of the Philippines University, in partnership with Blacklist International, offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Esports degree. The Philippines serves as a key market for esports in the region, boasting over 43 million active gamers and experiencing a remarkable CAGR of over 12 percent. With a population of 110 million individuals, mostly under 25, and the rapid rollout of 5G networks, the market is projected to reach US$1.5 billion by 2025. Local esports organizations, such as Blacklist International, Bren Esports, Execration, Neon eSports, Omega eSports, Team Pacquiao GG, and TNC Predator, contribute to the vibrant esports landscape in the Philippines. Local tournaments with substantial prize pools and leagues like Mobile Legends and Bang Bang Professional League further enhance the country’s esports ecosystem.

Significant growth in the sector

Post-Covid, the esports industry in the Philippines witnessed significant growth, attracting investments and establishing local offices from game developers like Moonton Games and Riot Games. The most popular games in the country include Dota 2, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and League of Legends, with Dota 2 leading the prize pool with over US$10 million. In the Philippines, esports betting is legal, with Filipinos allowed to gamble on offshore casinos, sportsbooks, and other platforms. Online betting sites must be licensed and registered in their country of origin, and bettors must be over 18 years old. Cryptocurrencies, bank transfers, and e-wallets are common payment methods for esports bets. Luxury brands, recognizing the power of esports to connect with the gaming generation, have started using the platform to communicate with consumers and brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and BMW are leveraging esports to engage with their audience and change the revenue model. Additionally, a growing trend is the use of mixed content, incorporating music and diverse programs to enhance entertainment value in esports.

The rise of female gamers is evident in the Philippines, with women playing a significant role in the industry’s growth. Sibol’s Women Wild Rift team recently secured the first South East Asian Games gold medal for women in esports, further cementing the country’s position as a rising esports powerhouse in the region.

New headquarters for Philippine Esports Organisation

The Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO) has taken a significant step forward in uplifting the esports industry by inaugurating its new headquarters at the LaunchPad in Mandaluyong City. The momentous event, held at the TV5 Media Center, marks a major milestone for the organization and the entire Philippine esports community.Jane J. Basas, President, and CEO of MediaGuest Holdings, expressed the significance of the new facility, stating that it represents a commitment to cultivating a thriving esports ecosystem. The state-of-the-art office will serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration, supporting the development of talented esports athletes and providing a professional environment for their training and skill enhancement. The headquarters boasts a ‘Championship Wall,’ honoring Filipino esports athletes who earned medals in the Southeast Asian Games, and a well-equipped meeting room with state-of-the-art gaming laptops and peripherals.