Philippine Mobile Legends' "Multo?" Kairi has become quite the export for MLBB, but that also means missing out as a local player on the country's continued dominance on the international stage.
ABU DHABI — Filipino esports stars heading overseas has become the norm over the past couple of seasons, driven by bigger opportunities, better pay, and global exposure.
Still, there are lingering what-ifs—especially when it comes to one of MLBB Philippines’ brightest exports.
ONIC Indonesia jungler Kairi “Kairi” Rayosdelsol admitted that the thought of returning home has crossed his mind, even as he continues to thrive abroad.
In an exclusive interview with One Sports, the Filipino standout shared that while the idea is tempting, the adjustments he might face play a role in his decision especially after years of settling in abroad.
“Minsan po napapaisip din ako, kaso baka mahirapan ako mag adjust kasi matagal na 'rin po ako sa ONIC, so komportable na 'rin po talaga ako sa team,” he said.
Kairi has been with ONIC Indonesia since MPL Season 10 in 2022, building his legacy as one of the most successful Filipino imports in MLBB history.
While he proudly represents the Indonesian powerhouse, he made it clear that the Philippines remains close to his heart.
"Opo naman [dala ko pa rin ang Pinas], lalo na po kasi ‘yung M-Series naman po and MPL, ‘yung nirere-present ko po ay ONIC, hindi ‘yung bansa [Indonesia],” Kairi said.
The jungler also didn’t hide his interest in possibly donning Philippine colors on the regional stage, particularly in the SEA Games—where the country has dominated, winning four straight gold medals in men’s MLBB.
“Kung in the future, makasali po ako ng SEA Games for the Philippines ita-try ko,” he said.
For now, Kairi’s focus remains on ONIC as they prepare for another high-stakes showdown, ironically against the “national team” he longs to join.
MPL-PH champions Team Liquid PH, who made up the core of SIBOL in SEA Games 2025, will once again represent the Philippines, this time on the M7 World Championship stage in Jakarta, Indonesia this January.
Standing in their way? None other than the hometown favorites ONIC Indonesia.
Kairi knows all too well the caliber of the team he’ll be facing.
"Wala naman po ako masyadong expectation kasi sobrang lakas po nila ngayon, di ba? [TLPH], lalo na si Sanford and KarlTzy, hopefully po matalo namin sila sa M7,” he said.
Fresh off a championship run at the Games of the Future in Abu Dhabi, Kairi and ONIC are set for a blockbuster clash against Team Liquid PH—this time on ONIC’s home turf.
And as always, the Filipinos are on his mind.
"Sa mga Filipino fans ko po diyan and ng ONIC Indonesia, abangan niyo po kami."
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Gillian Trinidad began her career in the industry as a content producer before finding her voice as a feature writer.
She has covered a wide range of competitions—from esports titles like League of Legends, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and VALORANT to traditional sports and entertainment, including the WWE, PBA, and Gilas Pilipinas.