Esports personality Claudine "Odin" Tayco remains focused on honing her craft in MDL Philippines, while cherishing the valuable moments she shared with former MPL PH mainstay Mara Aquino.
When Mara Aquino stepped away from her long-standing role as the host of MPL Philippines after four years, her departure left a significant void in both the local and international esports scene.
Many speculated on who could fill the gap left by one of the most recognizable faces in MPL. But for Claudine "Odin" Tayco — already a prominent figure in MDL Philippines since Season 2 — the transition was not a challenge but an opportunity.
“I’m very honored and at the same time humbled to be mentioned as one of the faces of the ‘new generation’ in esports,” Odin shared during her appearance at the 2025 Philippine GameDev Expo at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
She continued, “But apart from Mara’s departure, I didn’t feel pressured or threatened because Ate Mara was very supportive sa’kin ‘nung nagsa-start palang ako.”
[ALSO READ: Esports personality Odin dishes out MSC 2025 predictions for Team Liquid PH, ONIC PH]
She recalled a pivotal moment during MPL PH Season 12, when Aquino reassured her that she had no immediate plans to leave.
However, when the former PBA courtside reporter made the decision to join Honor of Kings earlier this year, speculation surged about who would step in to fill her shoes and among the names floated, Odin was frequently mentioned.
[ALSO READ: Mara Aquino shines in new role as host for Philippine Kings League]
She was even featured as one of the co-host of MPL PH Season 15 alongside Hans Galeria once. However, that decision did not spare Odin from the inevitable comparisons between her and Aquino, sparking debates that at times seemed to pit the two hosts against each other.
But Odin addressed the situation with clarity.
“Sa mga tao na pinagco-compare kami, I get it na maraming naprove si ate Mara. But wala talagang bad blood sa’min,” she said. "Sobrang supportive talaga ni Ate Mara, not just for me but sa lahat ng talents. Happy ako kung nasaan siya ngayon.”
Reflecting on the lessons she learned from Aquino, Odin shared one that has remained crucial to her development.
“I learned that I need to be firm in what I believe in. Not everyone will be in favor of us, but if you’re on the right path, you have to stand by what you believe,” she explained.
Odin’s path in esports is just beginning, and with the lessons she’s learned from Aquino, she is ready to carve out her own legacy. And as she continues to build her career, the MDL PH’s host sent a clear message to her doubters.
“It’s fine kasi nasaksihan niyo kung paano ako nagsimula na halos talagang wala akong maibigay. I’m very happy for my growth and marami pa kong kailangan i-improve moving forward. Tinatake ko naman lahat ng constructive criticisms positively.”