The Philippines is gearing up for another major international esports campaign as five Team SIBOL squads prepare to compete in the inaugural Esports Nations Cup (ENC), which will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 2 to 29, 2026.
Unlike most global esports tournaments that feature professional organizations, the ENC brings together national teams representing their respective countries, adding a new level of pride and prestige to international competition. The tournament is also expected to become a biennial event.
Representing the Philippines are Team SIBOL’s squads in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, League of Legends, Honor of Kings, Dota 2, and VALORANT. Here’s a look at the players and coaches aiming to bring home glory for the country.
SIBOL – Mobile Legends: Bang Bang National Team
The SIBOL MLBB squad is composed of Jaypee “Jaypee” Dela Cruz, Alston “Sanji” Pabico, and Karl “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno, with David “FlapTzy” Canon, Marco “Super Marco” Requitiano, Duane “Kelra” Pillas, and Kairi “Kairi” Rayosdelsol serving as reserve players.
The roster boasts championship pedigree, with several members capturing last year’s MLBB Mid-Season Cup (MSC) at the Esports World Cup under ONIC Philippines. Guiding the team is Francis “Ducky” Glindro, a decorated coach and two-time MLBB world champion.
SIBOL – League of Legends National Team
Representing the Philippines in League of Legends are Reven “Relhia” Lhi Aloit, Joshua “Devoured” Escucharo, Cherv “Cherb” Dorad, Kyle “Dawn” Somera, and Jan “Cresho” Hortizuela, under the leadership of veteran coach Ralph Andrei “Leathergoods” Llabres.
While the squad may not carry the same championship credentials as its MLBB counterpart, it earned its place in Riyadh through an impressive qualifying campaign, defeating Guam, Australia, and Singapore.
SIBOL – Valorant National Team
The Philippine VALORANT team enters the tournament with one of the country’s most accomplished lineups.
Headlining the roster is Patrick “PatMen” Mendoza, who made history as the first Filipino player to win the VALORANT Masters Toronto championship with Paper Rex. Joining him are Adrian Jiggs “Invy” Reyes, Jhian “Zeus” Vega, Xavier “xavi8k” Juan, Brheyanne “Wild0reoo” Reyes, and Kelly “KellyS” Sedillo, with Jose “Rbtx” Jamir serving as head coach.
Together, the team brings a wealth of championship experience from both local and international competitions.
SIBOL – Honor of Kings National Team
The Honor of Kings squad features Chammy “Chammy1” Nazarrea, Justine “Juschie” Tan, Charles “Chazz” Esguerra, Eleazar “Azar” Sall, John “Daniii” Bulanadi, and Heri “Tatsurii” Garcia, coached by Gerald “Tgee” Gelacio.
The Philippines currently ranks third in the ENC Honor of Kings standings, earning the team a direct invitation to the tournament. The roster also brings valuable international experience, having competed in several major HoK events.
SIBOL – Dota 2 National Team
Rounding out the Philippine delegation is the Dota 2 squad composed of Mark “Shanks” Redira, Eljohn “Akashi” Andales, Mc “Mac” Villanueva, Glenard “Rupido” Rugay, Bryle “cml” Alvizo, Abed “Abed” Yusop, and Polo “Raven” Fausto, with Josef “JL” Brazal as head coach.
The team punched its ticket to Riyadh after winning Southeast Asia and Oceania Qualifier. It is also bolstered by veteran stars Abed Yusop and Raven Fausto, two of the Philippines’ most accomplished Dota 2 players, giving the squad both experience and firepower heading into the tournament.
Ready to Represent the Philippines
With five national teams competing across some of the world’s biggest esports titles, Team SIBOL heads to Riyadh with a blend of proven champions, rising stars, and seasoned veterans. Armed with international experience and strong coaching staff, the Philippine delegation will look to make its mark in the inaugural Esports Nations Cup and add another chapter to the country’s growing legacy on the global esports stage.