It looks like the Philippine Esports Organization is going to be very busy in the next three years.
Exciting times are ahead for Filipino esports fans as PESO Executive Director Marlon Marcelo revealed the organization’s plans for the 2026 Asian Games. The SIBOL national team is already gearing up for the SEA Games later this December but now they’re looking ahead.
“We’re taking it one step at a time,” said Marlon during an interview with the media. “The short-term goal is to win the 2025 SEA Games. Mid-term is the 2026 Asian Games. And of course, 2027 is the first-ever esports Olympics. We still don’t know what games will be there but we’re hoping MLBB will make it.”
MLBB wasn’t included in the Asian Games’ inaugural esports lineup last year. With the recently revealed list of games for 2026, not only was MLBB included but other popular titles such as Tekken and PUBG Mobile were as well.
The Philippines has been known to excel in these games so Marlon is optimistic about our chances for a medal.
“If you look at the progression from 2025 to 2027, it’s becoming more favorable for us when you consider the selection of games,” continued Marlon. “The plan is that if we have a shot at a particular game, that will be the priority. We’re not saying that we won’t be competing in other titles but we have to be strategic. Why? Because we have to be careful with how we use our resources and funding so that we can have the best chance of winning a medal.”
Preparations Are Already Underway
As for getting ready for the 2026 Asian Games, Marlon and the rest of PESO are not wasting any time.
“It’s going to be a very comprehensive plan for Team SIBOL for the next three years. My job is to make sure that we’re well-funded and that we have partners that will support this dream. And when you consider the speed of these changes, we have to act fast.”
This is a serious undertaking as each event will be more challenging and demanding than the last, as Marlon explained to The GAME.
“Going from Southeast Asia, to Asia, and then the Olympics, there are tiers of resources that need to be gathered. And pahirap na pahirap yan. If we’re confident that we can get a medal in the SEA Games, can we also get one in the Asian Games? Will we be able to qualify? Then going to the Olympics, what will the different classifications be? Marami talagang ibang factors but we’ll be definitely scaling up our resources and preparations.”
At the very least, PESO is not alone in preparing for the 2026 Asian Games. They’re already talking with the PSC and POC on how to better handle these global Olympic events. It’ll be tough work but Marlon is confident that our national athletes have what it takes to succeed.
“Of course, the Olympic experience will be something brand new, but if there are games that we are really strong in, then I think we really have a good chance. We’re world champions in some of those games but the Olympics experience can be something completely different. Hopefully our championship experience will translate to the global Olympic stage.”
Banner photo by Ramon Domingo.