Filipinos and Dota. That’s a bond that can never be broken.
The Philippines has maintained a strong global presence within the Dota 2 community. Just look at PBA star June Mar Fajardo.
Pinoy players have been a reliable fixture in major tournaments, particularly when it comes to prestigious events like this year's The International in Seattle.
For those wondering, the prize pool is $2,957,685 or close to P165 million. That's a lot of hours on pisonet.
Three talented Dota boys are set to represent the Philippines in the tournament, which will start tonight, for a shot at glory and to finally raise the Aegis of Champions.
Abed Yusop
If there’s one Pinoy who lives and breathes DOTA, that's Yusop.
With a remarkable career that includes stints with Digital Chaos, Fnatic, Evil Geniuses, and now Shopify Rebellion, he has consistently performed on the international stage.
Abed is the only one out of the three Filipinos who directly qualified for The International after his team became one of the top 12 squads in the Dota Pro Circuit.
He has participated in multiple Major tournaments and is now gearing up for his sixth International. Could this be the year for Abed? Pinoy fans certainly hope so.
Kim “Gabbi” Santos
One of the most popular DOTA players among Pinoys, "Gabbi" of Entity has consistently demonstrated his exceptional skills within the competitive realm of Dota in Southeast Asia (SEA).
He boasts of an impressive track record of podium finishes in numerous SEA tournaments, proudly representing Pinoy teams like Execration and TNC.
While he's certainly no newcomer to The International, "Gabbi" and his teams have yet to find themselves having a deep run in the tournament.
But maybe this could be their breakthrough.
Jaunuel Arcilla
Arguably a quiet individual among Pinoy Dota pros is Arcilla of Team SMG.
Last year marked a significant turning point for him as he became a part of Fnatic. This move propelled him to greater recognition. In the 2022 Dota Pro Circuit, Fnatic asserted its dominance by leading in all three tours, with Jaunuel standing out with the highest average assists per game in the second tour.
Subsequently, he achieved his maiden appearance at The International in the same year.
After knocking off several Pinoy teams in the Southeast Asia Qualifier, Jaunuel will look to shock the world in his second straight stint in The International.
While there are fewer Filipinos in this year’s tournament, no one can knock the talent the country has in the game.
(PM)