NAVI Expands Into Philippine MLBB Esports

NAVI Expands Into Philippine MLBB Esports with Smart Omega Empress Acquisition

A Historic Entry Into the Philippine MLBB Scene

Renowned global esports organization Natus Vincere (NAVI) has officially entered the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) scene in the Philippines with the acquisition of Smart Omega Empress (OMGE).

This strategic move reinforces NAVI’s commitment to expanding into Southeast Asia, recognizing the Philippines’ strong esports culture and legacy in MOBA titles.

Jonathan Yuwono, General Manager at NAVI, emphasized the importance of this move:

“The Philippines has a rich history of esports and MOBA titles. NAVI feels this is the perfect opportunity to enter the Philippine esports ecosystem and become a part of a growing esports and MLBB community.”

The acquisition marks NAVI’s first official MLBB roster in the region, setting the stage for major competitive achievements.

Empowering Women in Esports

OMGE is not just another MLBB team—it is a championship-winning squad with a legacy of dominance.

The team secured the title at the MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI) at the Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, cementing its position as one of the strongest women’s MLBB teams globally.

With this acquisition, NAVI strengthens the visibility and pathway for Filipina esports athletes, creating opportunities for women in competitive gaming.

Lee Viloria, PH Esports Head of Business Development and Partnerships, highlighted the importance of this milestone:

“NAVI’s acquisition of Smart Omega Empress, a crowned MLBB esports women’s team, signals the growth of the ecosystem that fosters a sustainable pathway, especially for young Filipinas who aspire to be professional esports athletes.”

This move isn’t just about competitive success—it’s about reinforcing gender inclusivity in esports and giving young female gamers role models to look up to.

Chasing Back-to-Back Titles

OMGE is currently on the path to defending its title, competing in the MWI PH Qualifier, Athena League, scheduled for May 23-25, 2025.

The team’s focus and skill have made them a force in women’s esports, and NAVI’s involvement is expected to elevate their competitive edge even further.

Jonathan Yuwono emphasized NAVI’s philosophy in acquiring top-tier teams:

“Smart Omega Empress has a history of winning internationally and at the highest levels. That is what NAVI is all about—we are born to win and are always exploring opportunities to acquire the best teams in their respective fields and game titles.”

OMGE’s potential under NAVI’s banner represents a new era for MLBB esports, pushing the boundaries of what women can achieve in professional gaming.

Strengthening Regional Presence

Beyond the Philippines, NAVI is also building its Southeast Asian MLBB portfolio, signing a deal with Malaysia’s Arcane—a team that has already qualified for MWI at EWC 2025.

This expansion underscores NAVI’s vision of competing at the highest levels across multiple regions, ensuring that women’s MLBB teams receive the recognition and support they deserve.

In a statement, NAVI expressed appreciation for its smooth buyout process with both teams:

“We thank [Smart] Omega [Empress] and Arcane esports clubs for the smoothly organized buyout process and look forward to new NAVI rosters performing on the international stage.”

As NAVI integrates these championship-level teams, the organization is well-positioned to make a lasting impact in the global MLBB esports scene.