The Philippine national esports team, known as Team Sibol, managed by the Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO) has officially entered the “championship mode” mantra as the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026 is set to kick off on July 6 in Riyadh.

LOOKING BACK AT THE FOUNDATION

The team firmly established itself as a premier region during the inaugural EWC 2024, most notably when Team Liquid PH (formerly ECHO PH), a top performing Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) team, captured the Mid Season Cup title. Marlon Marcelo, Executive Director of the Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO), expressed that this victory served as a definitive statement that Filipino players remain the gold standard for MLBB.
“This reflects our continued commitment to developing world-class Filipino esports athletes and strengthening the country's presence in international competition. We will work closely with our stakeholders to ensure that our national team is fully prepared to represent the Philippines with excellence, discipline, and pride.” – Marlon Marcelo
In 2025, Team Sibol successfully diversified its dominance in mobile gaming by improving its global standing in games like Honor of Kings and PUBG Mobile.

THE ROADMAP FOR EWC 2026 IN RIYADH

To secure global dominance in Riyadh this July, Team Sibol has launched rigorous strategies centered on a new hybrid selection process. By merging elite cores from champion clubs like Aurora Gaming PH with top national qualifiers, PeSO is building "super-teams" capable of multi-title success. A part of the game plan is also to introduce scientific training camps that prioritize mental health and "anti-meta" strategic analysis to counter rising competition from top-rank competitors like China and Indonesia. Jab Escutin, Sibol’s General Manager, emphasized the need for this adaptable approach.
“Esports is very fluid. The best team we had last November may not be the best team we have right now. Our goal is to unite the Philippine community in support of our athletes.” – Jab Escutin

A GLANCE AT EWC 2026

Date: July 6 – August 23, 2026
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Prize Pool: A record-breaking $75 Million