ONIC x Nine Lives Secures MDL Philippines Season 5 Championship
ONIC x Nine Lives Secures MDL Philippines Season 5 Championship
A Dominant Performance to Claim the Title
The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Development League Philippines (MDL PH) Season 5 has crowned its champion. ONIC x Nine Lives (ONL) delivered an incredible performance in the best-of-seven Grand Finals series, securing a commanding 4-1 victory over Aurora Hunters in front of an electrified crowd at Greenhills Mall, San Juan.
This championship win underscores ONL’s consistency and dominance throughout the season, as the team swept through the Group Stage, Playoffs, and Finals, proving their strength against Flair Esports, Uncle Drew Gamer Impact, and top-seeded Omega Neos.
With a mix of tactical brilliance, individual prowess, and disciplined execution, ONIC x Nine Lives Secures the title. ONL carved its path to the championship, solidifying its position as one of the strongest teams in the league’s history.
Meet the Champions: ONIC x Nine Lives’ Winning Roster
ONL’s championship lineup is a blend of experience, skill, and teamwork, featuring:
- Lance “Lansu” Misa – EXP Laner
- Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara – Mid Laner
- John Carlo “Caloy” Roma – Roamer
- Alejandro John “Kayn” Sombilon – Jungler
- Mico “Nosia” Guevarra – Gold Laner
- Erdie “Kodrex” Figueroa – Gold Laner
- John Lester “Kryptonite” Parco – Mid Laner
At the heart of their success is head coach John Paul “Right” Lugtu, whose leadership and strategies helped ONL execute their game plan flawlessly throughout the tournament.
Kayn Sombilon Named Grand Finals MVP
Among the standout performances, ONL’s Jungler, Alejandro John “Kayn” Sombilon, stole the show in the final series, earning the Grand Finals MVP award for his exceptional contributions.
Kayn’s impact on the battlefield was undeniable, using precise decision-making, calculated aggression, and effective team coordination to disrupt Aurora Hunters’ momentum.
After the victory, Kayn reflected on the journey:
“Sobrang saya kasi nag-effort ako at yung mga sacrifices ko naging worth it lahat.”
His determination and skill were instrumental in ONL’s triumph, proving that dedication leads to championship-level success.
Recognizing the League’s Top Performers
MDL Philippines celebrated outstanding talents through its annual award ceremony, highlighting players who made a lasting impact this season.
All-Star Team Selections:
- Best EXP Laner – Lance “Lansu” Misa (ONIC x Nine Lives)
- Best Roamer – John Carlo “Caloy” Roma (ONIC x Nine Lives)
- Best Mid Laner – Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara (ONIC x Nine Lives)
- Best Jungler – John Paul “H2WO” Salonga (Omega Neos)
- Best Gold Laner – Christian “West” Mangabay (Omega Neos)
Individual Awards:
- Rookie of the Season – Mico “Nosia” Guevarra (BLA Bear Esports)
- Most Improved Player – Alejandro John “Kayn” Sombilon (ONIC x Nine Lives)
- Regular Season MVP – Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara (ONIC x Nine Lives)
These recognitions reinforce the impact of emerging and seasoned players, setting the stage for future esports stars.
MDL PH’s Role in Developing Esports Talent
The MDL Philippines serves as a critical platform for up-and-coming players, helping them hone their skills and prepare for professional-level competition.
Lee Viloria, PH Esports Head of Business Development and Partnerships at MOONTON Games, expressed optimism about the future of the league:
“MDL Philippines once again served its purpose in discovering a new wave of talents that can potentially be part of the country’s biggest MLBB esports league.”
The league provides a gateway for young players who aspire to join the MLBB pro circuit, ensuring a steady pipeline of new esports talent in the Philippines.
Bringing the Tournament to the Community
This season, MDL PH brought the Grand Finals closer to fans, hosting the event in Greenhills Mall to maintain a strong grassroots connection.
According to Viloria, engaging local communities and brand partners remains key to growing the esports ecosystem.
“Hosting the Grand Finals in the mall is our way of keeping our supportive community alive and bringing the tournament closer to the grassroots.”
Fans, players, and sponsors came together in an electrifying atmosphere, further reinforcing the passion and dedication surrounding Philippine MLBB esports.
Support from Key Partners
MDL PH Season 5 was backed by realme as the co-presenter, alongside Maya and TT Racing as sponsors, and GH Mall as the venue partner.
The tournament also operated under the supervision of the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), ensuring compliance and professionalism in the country’s growing esports scene.
Where to Follow MDL Philippines
Stay updated on MDL PH and MLBB esports through official social media channels:
MDL Philippines:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mdlph.official
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mdl.philippines
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialMDLPhilippines
MLBB Esports Philippines:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLBBEsportsPH
