Riot Launches First VALORANT Server in Manila, Philippines
Riot Launches First VALORANT Server in Manila, Philippines
A Game-Changing Upgrade for Filipino Players
Riot Games is finally giving Filipino VALORANT players what they’ve long deserved: a dedicated gameserver right here in Manila. Riot Launches First VALORANT Server in Manila to celbrate year 5.
Set to go live on August 20 at 5:00 AM (PHT) with Patch 11.04, the Manila server marks Riot’s sixth gameserver in the Asia Pacific region. And for local players, it’s a game-changer—literally.
Expect lower ping, fewer connection drops, and smoother gameplay. No more relying on distant servers in Hong Kong or Singapore. The infrastructure is now local, and that means faster, more stable matches.
Why This Matters
For years, Filipino players have connected to VALORANT’s Hong Kong server, which has served as the default hub since the game’s launch in 2020.
While it’s held up remarkably well, the physical distance has always introduced latency issues. That’s especially frustrating in a game where milliseconds can mean the difference between clutching a round or getting outplayed.
The Manila server won’t replace Hong Kong—it’s an additional option. Players can choose between the two based on preference or performance. And yes, switching servers won’t affect your eligibility for Premier tournaments or qualification for the Challengers Southeast Asia league.
What to Expect on Launch
The Manila server will appear as ‘MNL’ in the server options under the Southeast Asia region. It will function like existing game pods in Hong Kong and Singapore, offering the same matchmaking experience but with hyperlocal connectivity.
This means more matches with fellow Filipino players, faster response times, and fewer interruptions. It’s Riot’s way of saying: “We see you, we hear you, and we’re investing in you.”
Celebrating Five Years of VALORANT in the Philippines
The server launch comes on the heels of VALORANT’s fifth anniversary, which Riot celebrated with a month-long tribute to Filipino players.
Highlights included:
- A tribute video spotlighting local gameplay moments
- The ‘Humans of VALORANT’ mini-documentary series
- A massive mural in Taguig City, showcasing iconic Pinoy VALORANT scenes
These weren’t just marketing stunts. They were heartfelt nods to the community that’s helped shape VALORANT’s identity in the Philippines.
Riot’s Commitment to the Local Scene
“Launching VALORANT’s first-ever gameserver in the Philippines reinforces our commitment to improving the local player experience,” said Jason Roberto, Brand Manager for VALORANT at Riot Games Philippines.
He emphasized that Riot’s priority is to enrich gameplay and support the community. The Manila server is just one part of a broader effort to localize the VALORANT experience and make it more responsive to Filipino players’ needs.
Community Tournaments Incoming
To celebrate the launch, Riot Games Philippines will be organizing community tournaments across the country.
These events aim to bring players together, showcase local talent, and build excitement around the new server. Details will be announced soon via VALORANT’s official PH social media channels.
So if you’ve been grinding ranked or dreaming of going pro, now’s the time to rally your squad and get ready.
What This Means for the Future
The Manila server isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a statement.
It shows that Riot is serious about supporting Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing gaming market. It validates the passion of Filipino players and opens the door for more localized content, events, and competitive opportunities.
And for players? It means fewer excuses, better matches, and a stronger sense of community.
Follow VALORANT PH on Facebook and Instagram for the latest announcements on the new server, Patch 11.04, and nationwide community tournaments updates.
