The best esports players in the Philippines have continuously proven that talent knows no limits. Despite facing some of the world’s slowest internet speeds, these gamers have defied the odds, rising to the global stage and claiming championship titles, MVP honors, and legendary status across a variety of esports titles. Their passion, skill, and determination have made them stand out as top contenders in the competitive world of pro gaming.
- 1. Who are the Top 10 Best Esports Players in the Philippines
- 2. Here are the Top 10 Best Esports Players in the Philippines:
- 10. Zachary "Zekken" Patrone
- 9. Jake "Xmithie" Puchero
- 8. Caviar "EnDerr" Acampado
- 7. Alexandre "AK" Laverez
- 6. Danerie James "Wise" Del Rosario
- 5. Johnmar "OhMyV33NUS" Villaluna
- 4. Carlito "Ribo" Ribo Jr.
- 3. Carlo "Kuku" Palad
- 2. Abed "Abed" Yusop
- 1. Djardel "DJ" Mampusti
Who are the Top 10 Best Esports Players in the Philippines
The Philippines is known to be one of the most prolific trash talkers in esports—it’s part of the culture. Whether it’s in the heat of battle or just casual banter, Pinoys bring the noise. Hence the term, “Peenoise”. But beneath that fiery spirit lies a deep love for gaming and a relentless drive to be the best. From Dota 2 veterans, Valorant and Tekken prodigies, to the best of the best MLBB players, Filipino gamers have consistently proven they can compete with—and often outplay—the world’s elite. With championship titles and legendary moments across multiple titles, Filipino players have carved their names into the annals of esports history.
Here are the Top 10 Best Esports Players in the Philippines:
10. Zachary “Zekken” Patrone
Zekken is a young Filipino-American Valorant star making serious waves internationally. In 2024, he helped Sentinels win VCT Masters Madrid, one of the biggest Valorant tournaments in the world—and he didn’t just play well, he earned Finals MVP, proving he thrives under pressure.
Zekken’s journey from being a rising NA prodigy to a global star is a testament to how far Filipino talent can go in the FPS scene. At just 18 years old, he’s already considered one of the best Valorant players in the world—and he’s just getting started.
9. Jake “Xmithie” Puchero
Xmithie is a Filipino-American who made his name in the North American League of Legends scene. He was the jungle king during Team Liquid’s dominant era from 2018–2019, winning four consecutive LCS titles.
Known for his smart pathing, vision control, and calm presence under pressure, Xmithie played a crucial role in Team Liquid’s deep runs at international events like MSI. He also represented NA at multiple World Championships. For years, he was considered the most reliable jungler in North America, and many credited him for being the backbone of every team he played for. His career set the standard for Filipino players in the global League scene.
8. Caviar “EnDerr” Acampado
EnDerr is a veteran in the StarCraft II world. He’s been competing for over 10 years and has long been the face of Filipino SC2. A SEA Games gold medalist, EnDerr is known for his aggressive Zerg play, precise micro, and ability to adapt to different metas.
He has consistently dominated SEA qualifiers, represented the country at global events like WCS, and inspired local SC2 talent to stick with the game even as the esports spotlight shifted elsewhere. His longevity and success in a highly demanding RTS game have earned him elite status in Philippine esports.
7. Alexandre “AK” Laverez
AK started playing Tekken at just 6 years old and entered his first tournament at 9. At 13, he made headlines by placing 3rd at the 2013 King of Iron Fist Global Championship. Since then, he’s been a consistent threat in the Tekken scene.
His biggest moment came in 2024, when he won his first major international title at Combo Breaker, beating legends like Rangchu and Arslan Ash. With Tekken 8’s rise, AK is more dangerous than ever and remains one of the top players in the world.
6. Danerie James “Wise” Del Rosario
Wise is Blacklist International’s reliable jungler and one of the smartest players in MLBB. Known for using off-meta picks like Bane and Aldous, he helped redefine how the jungle role works. Wise was key in Blacklist’s M3 title win and multiple MPL championships.
He’s known not just for his hero pool but for staying calm and focused even in the toughest matches. Wise also played a big role in in-game decisions, like when he suggested prioritizing Benedetta in the MPL PH S10 Grand Finals, which turned out to be game-winning. In 2023, he was inducted into the MPL Hall of Legends, solidifying his place in MLBB history.
5. Johnmar “OhMyV33NUS” Villaluna
OhMyV33NUS is the heart of Blacklist International and one of the most influential names in MLBB. Known for her calm leadership and support plays, she helped shape the famous UBE strategy, where the team moves and fights together as one.
With Blacklist, she won three MPL titles, the M3 World Championship, and even earned a gold medal at the SEA Games. V33NUS was inducted into the MPL Hall of Legends in 2023 and holds the record for most assists in league history. She also stands as a proud voice for the LGBTQ+ community and continues her journey with Team Aurora in 2024.
4. Carlito “Ribo” Ribo Jr.
Ribo is an OG of the MLBB pro scene in the Philippines and is considered by many as the GOAT of Mobile Legends. He started all the way back in Season 1 with Aether Main and helped them win the very first MPL PH championship. He later joined Bren Esports and was a key part of their MPL PH Season 6 and M2 World Championship wins.
Ribo also represented the Philippines in the 2019 SEA Games and won gold. Although he’s now retired, his influence on the MLBB scene can’t be overstated—he paved the way for the stars that followed.
3. Carlo “Kuku” Palad
Kuku is one of the most seasoned Dota 2 players from the Philippines. He’s played just about every role, led teams as captain, and stayed at the top of the game for nearly a decade. He was part of the TNC squad that famously beat OG at TI6 and later led TNC to win the MDL Chengdu Major in 2019—the first-ever Dota 2 Major win by a SEA team.
More recently, he helped T1 reach the top 8 at The International 10. Kuku’s leadership and adaptability have made him one of the core figures in PH Dota history.
2. Abed “Abed” Yusop
Abed made history as the first player in the world to hit 10,000 MMR back in 2017, and he didn’t stop there—he reached 11,000 in 2020. But Abed’s not just an MMR grinder. He’s shown that he can compete on the big stage with top-tier teams like Digital Chaos, Fnatic, and Evil Geniuses.
With EG, he helped them secure solid finishes in big events like ESL One Los Angeles and earned a direct invite to The International 10. Abed’s midlane mastery—especially with heroes like Storm Spirit and Puck—has made him one of the most dangerous playmakers in the game.
1. Djardel “DJ” Mampusti
DJ is a Pinoy esports icon and a true Fnatic legend. Known for his flashy support plays and game-saving ultimates, DJ has long been one of the most recognized names in the SEA Dota 2 scene. His clutch Black Hole plays during the Manila Major still pop up in highlight reels today.
DJ’s consistency with Fnatic made him one of the most respected support players in Southeast Asia. He’s played in multiple TIs and Majors, and while prize money doesn’t define greatness, DJ holds the record as the highest-earning Filipino esports player—proof of just how far he’s taken his game. More than the trophies, he’s inspired an entire generation of Pinoy Dota hopefuls.
The esports scene in the Philippines continues to thrive, with the best Filipino esports players setting the bar higher for future generations. Their amazing commitment to excellence, despite obstacles, has earned them a place among the best in the world.
From MOBAs, Fighting games, or even RTS Filipino players have shown time and time again that talent is universal, and the country’s influence in global esports will only continue to grow. The journey doesn’t stop here—these legends have paved the way for the next wave of Pinoy talent to rise and take their place in the esports spotlight.
