Team Liquid Philippines (TLPH) claimed the championship title in Season 16 of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Professional League (MPL) Philippines, defeating Aurora Gaming (RORA) in a thrilling best-of-seven (Bo7) Grand Finals showdown via sweep (4:0). The intense matchup took place before the league's largest live audience yet, held at the iconic Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.
TLPH showcased their dominance over RORA, a formidable opponent that had only suffered two losses throughout the entire season. With their commanding victory, TLPH claimed the lion's share of the prize pool and lifted the coveted MPL Immortal Cup in triumph.
Jaypee "Jaypee" Dela Cruz was named Finals Most Valuable Player (FMVP) after delivering standout performances that carried the team to victory, making him the game MVP for games 2 and 3.
Matthew Chan, PH Head of Esports at MOONTON Games, said, "MPL PH Season 16 has been a phenomenal display and celebration of skill, teamwork, and the unbreakable passion that defines our players. This season stood as a testament to the league's evolution, showcasing the eras that shaped the very identity of Philippine excellence in MLBB esports. From the MLBB esports veterans who built their legacy to the new and rising stars who continue to push its boundaries and show exceptional gameplay, every match told a story of dedication and heart."
Following MPL PH Season 16, TLPH and RORA will represent the Philippines in the M7 World Championship, set to take place in Indonesia in January 2026. The Philippines continues its legacy as a powerhouse in the M-series, having secured the championship title for five consecutive years, and will once again showcase Filipino esports excellence on the global stage.
MPL PH Becomes a Cultural Gathering Beyond Esports
The five-day MPL PH Season 16 Playoffs offered more than just world-class competition. It was a full celebration of the country's esports community. Fans flocked to the MPL Festival Superfan City, where they enjoyed interactive sponsor booths, exclusive team merchandise, and a free Playoffs watch party that brought the excitement beyond the main stage.
Each day opened with the Community Parade, where the streets of Cuneta Astrodome came alive with color, energy, and pride. Fans marched together, waving their team banners high and cheering for their esports heroes. The excitement carried into the night with electrifying performances from Barq, UNXPCTD, Nobita, and Ace Banzuelo, transforming the Playoffs into a spectacular fusion of music, fandom, and esports spirit, all made possible through the dynamic partnership with Sony Music Philippines.
MPL PH Season 16 was made even more memorable through the support and creative activations of its official partners, each contributing to the league's growing festival atmosphere. Infinix powered the competition as the official tournament phone and brought the excitement of the Fansiklaban Grand Finals to the MPL Festival Superfan City, where the community proudly represented their favorite teams. Smart kept the fans engaged with their interactive MLBB activities and reliable connectivity as the official telco partner.
The official bank partner, BPI, encouraged fans to build a stronger future both in and out of the game, educating the community on the value of saving through fun and interactive booth activities. Knorr and Clear brought their own flavor and energy to the celebration, uniting the fans through product giveaways and fun segments.
Road to the 33rd SEA Games, M7 World Championship begins
The Grand Finals opening ceremony marked the official launch of the Philippines' campaign for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) 2025, honoring the athletes who will proudly carry the nation's colors in the regional competition. Games and Amusements Board (GAB) and the Philippine Esports Organization (PESO) joined the ceremony to show their support for the country's esports athletes. Their presence underscored the agencies' full support for the nation's esports delegation as they prepare to compete at the SEA Games 2025 and the M7 World Championship.
Marlon Marcelo, Executive Director of the Philippine Esports Organization (PESO), said, "MPL Philippines continues to be a cornerstone of our esports ecosystem. It serves as the perfect platform for discovering, developing, and celebrating Filipino talent—many of whom go on to represent the country under SIBOL in international tournaments. As we launch our campaign for the SEA Games 2025, we see MPL PH as a vital partner in strengthening the pipeline of world-class athletes who embody the skill, discipline, and passion of Filipino esports."
"The great thing about working hand-in-hand with MOONTON Games is that their strong ecosystem directly supports both our national team and the professional scene. Their commitment to support us during multiple international MLBB events creates incredible opportunities for our athletes to showcase their skills on the global stage, and that's a good problem to have. It also reinforces why we have open qualifiers, ensuring that we discover and develop new talent beyond the existing pro players. This partnership helps strengthen the entire esports landscape in the Philippines," added Jab Escutin, General Manager at PESO.
TLPH's roster, along with John Carlo "Caloy" Roma, will field the SIBOL MLBB Men's team at the 33rd SEA Games. On the other hand, NAVI PH's core five players and Clarisse "CLA" Cordova will represent the SIBOL MLBB Women's team. The 33rd SEA Games takes place in Bangkok, Thailand, in December.
