Philippine Esports Organization eyes new facility, expansion of grassroots programs in 2024

The Philippine Esports Organization (PESO), the National Sports Association for esports in the country, announced “exciting” plans it has for this year at a recent press conference and thanksgiving night at the Double Dragon Plaza in Pasay.

PESO plans to build an esports facility that can accommodate several activities like athlete training, events, and broadcasting. The organization said it already has the blueprint and is finalizing procedures for funding, according to a release.

PESO is also expanding its National Grassroots Programs, focusing on Visayas and Mindanao. It aims to provide opportunities and nurture talent among players and potential professional athletes beyond the “traditional esports hubs.”

Ralph Andrei Llabes, overall head coach of Team Sibol, Marlon Marcelo, executive director of PESO, and Leo Andrew Escutin, general manager of Team Sibol, talk to the press during the PESO thanksgiving night. | Image source: PESO

“Our focus on enhancing esports infrastructure reflects our commitment to providing top-tier environments for players to hone their skills,” said Marlon Marcelo, PESO executive director.

“Moreover, our commitment extends beyond physical boundaries. PESO’s esports facility is not just a space; it’s a dynamic broadcast center, bringing online events to life with cutting-edge technology and production values. PESO’s vision for 2024 is to create spaces that inspire excellence and propel esports to new heights,” he added.

Triumphant year

PESO in July 2023 inaugurated its new headquarters in Mandaluyong, a state-of-the-art facility that serves as the “nerve center” for Sibol, the national esports team, and provides an environment for training and collaboration.

PESO was also named the National Federation of the Year 2023 by the International Esports Federation (IESF), besting 140 countries and underscoring the organization’s commitment to the development and promotion of esports.

The year 2023 also saw Sibol raking in medals, trophies, and championships. The team secured a total of six medals (2 gold, 1 silver, 3 bronze) in the Southeast Asian Games in May 2023. Sibol bagged two medals, a gold and a silver, at the IESF Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Tekken 7 events, respectively.

“We take immense pride in supporting a team of talented and passionate players who have been training relentlessly to represent our country. Looking ahead to 2024, we hold firm in our belief that Sibol will persist in elevating the Philippines on the global esports stage,” says Sibol general manager Jab Escutin.

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Chris Layugan