The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines (MPL PH) stands as a cornerstone in Southeast Asia’s esports scene, having been established in 2018. It has been instrumental in the growth and recognition of top-tier esports organizations within the Philippines, such as Bren Esports, Blacklist International, and ECHO.
The league operates on a franchise-based system, similar to the model used by MPL Indonesia, which has been in effect since Season 8. This model has streamlined the competition by removing local team qualifiers and establishing a set of teams that compete across seasons.
MPL Philippines’ Impact on Global Competitions
MPL Philippines is not just a national league but also serves as a gateway for teams to qualify for global competitions like the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang World Championship and the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Mid Season Cup. The league’s strength is evident as it has produced four world champions, with the Philippines winning four consecutive world championship titles as of 2023. Specifically, AP Bren has made history as the only two-time organization world champion, having secured victories in both the M2 and M5 World Championships.
Franchise Model and League Development
The franchise-based model adopted by MPL PH has brought about a standardized salary system for players, a code of conduct to maintain professionalism, and the elimination of the need for qualifiers. This model has also paved the way for the creation of a developmental league from Season 9 onwards, aiming to nurture more talent within the esports ecosystem. The eight teams that have secured their franchise slots for Season 8 include notable names like Blacklist International, Bren Esports, and ECHO.
MPL Philippines Champions and Prize Pools
Here is a summary of the MPL PH champions and their respective prize pools since the league’s inception:
- MPL PH Season 1: Aether Main – US$100,000
- MPL PH Season 2: Cignal Ultra – US$117,000
- MPL PH Season 3: ArkAngel – US$100,000
- MPL PH Season 4: Sunsparks – US$100,000
- MPL PH Season 5: Sunsparks – US$100,000
- MPL PH Season 6: Bren Esports – US$120,000
- MPL PH Season 7: Blacklist International – US$120,000
- MPL PH Season 8: Blacklist International – US$150,000
- MPL PH Season 9: RSG PH – US$150,000
- MPL PH Season 10: Blacklist International – US$150,000
- MPL PH Season 11: ECHO – US$150,000
- MPL PH Season 12: AP Bren – US$150,000
- MPL PH Season 13: Team Liquid ECHO – US$150,000
Blacklist International has achieved the most MPL titles with three championships, followed by Sunsparks and ECHO, each with two titles.
The MPL Philippines has established itself as a premier esports league, fostering talent and competition at the highest level. Its franchise-based model has brought stability and growth to the league, and its teams have shown remarkable success on the world stage. With a history of strong performances and a clear path for development, the MPL PH continues to be a significant force in the global esports landscape.
