Smart is putting Filipino esports front and center as it powers Team Sibol’s campaign at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Bangkok, Thailand. The telecommunications giant has reaffirmed its partnership with the Philippine esports team and the Philippines Esports Organization (PESO) as the delegation aims to defend its SEA Games gold medal in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Men’s tournament. Team Sibol will also compete in Arena of Valor (Men) and MLBB (Women) during the event.
According to Lloyd Manaloto, First Vice President at Smart, the company has played a vital role in powering Sibol’s training leading up to this significant regional competition. The renewed support underscores Smart’s commitment to helping Filipino esports athletes prepare for high-stakes tournaments, illustrating the growing recognition of esports in the Philippines.
Smart subscribers can enjoy real-time streaming of the SEA Games events through Smart Prepaid’s UNLI5G plan, enabling fans to follow Team Sibol’s matches live on their devices. For TNT subscribers, the Saya All 99 package includes 6 GB of open-access data, unlimited calls and texts, as well as data specifically for Mobile Legends and social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook, ensuring fans stay connected and engaged throughout the competition.
PESO Executive Director Marlon Marcelo expressed that Smart shares the organization’s vision of promoting esports in the Philippines and empowering local athletes. Through their collaboration, both Smart and PESO aim to inspire more Filipinos to engage with esports and create pathways for young players aspiring to compete on both regional and global stages.
Fans eager to stay updated on Team Sibol’s SEA Games journey can do so via official MLBB Esports channels on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, as well as a dedicated TikTok account for women’s MLBB esports. This online presence is set to enhance fan engagement and showcase the team’s progress in real-time.
In addition to supporting Team Sibol, Smart encourages fans to rally behind the broader Philippine delegation, which includes participants in basketball, tennis, boxing, and various other sports at the SEA Games. Support can be shown through online conversations, messages of encouragement, and sharing content that celebrates the athletes’ efforts and achievements, fostering a sense of national pride.
Smart is also introducing virtual cheer squads, social media shoutouts, and live-stream watch parties to engage fans and support Filipino athletes during the games. With each fan equipped with a mobile device, the SEA Games experience becomes more accessible, allowing everyone to amplify the stories of the country’s sports heroes and build a supportive community around the event.
The 33rd SEA Games, taking place in Bangkok from December 9 to 22, presents a unique opportunity for Team Sibol and other Filipino athletes to showcase their skills on an international platform. As the tournament progresses, the collaboration between Smart and PESO highlights the increasing significance of esports in the Philippines and the potential for local talent to shine on larger stages.
