Esports, or electronic sports, are organized competitions of professional video gamers. Esports has grown worldwide, with millions of followers watching live broadcasts and attending events. Esports has expanded in the Philippines, creating jobs, boosting tourism, and helping local esports organizations. It has also allowed Filipino players to participate internationally, making the Philippines a major esports contender.
In 2023, National Youth Commission (NYC), a government agency in the Philippines, established an esports tournament circuit called E-Palarong Pambansa. It is the esports counterpart of the well-known student-athlete annual multi-sport event in the Philippines, the Palarong Pambansa, which translates to "National Games." With that, here's all you need to know about E-Palarong Pambansa.
What is E-Palarong Pambansa?
Modeled after the annual "Palarong Pambansa," "E-Palarong Pambansa" aims to provide equivalent and perhaps better opportunities to Esports athletes in the Philippines through the promotion of Esports nationwide.
The league aspires to accomplish and actualize four key goals through the event:
1. The Creation of Hometown Esports Organizations in Every City/Municipality Nationwide
Led by the City/Municipality Esports Coordinator, these Esports organizations will serve as a testament that Esports is not just seen as a hobby or pastime but as a serious and respected initiative. These local Hometown Esports Organizations will be the clubs that can bring local gaming enthusiasts and existing local Esports organizations closer together under one banner.
Similar to NBA and European football teams representing their respective cities or regions with massive fanbase and funding, Hometown Esports organizations would represent their cities/municipalities in the national Esports scene.
2. Acquire Support From Local Businesses, Investors, and LGUs
Through E-Palarong Pambansa, Hometown Esports Organizations will have a compelling reason to call for support from local businesses, investors, and LGUs (Local Government Units).
Since the organization will be sending teams to represent their city/municipality on the national stage, asking for sponsorships will be achievable because these entities will want to align themselves with backing a cause that can bring national exposure and recognition to the community.
3. Sustainable Esports Careers Opportunities in Your Regions
Through E-Palarong Pambansa and the future iterations of the event, the league hope to see a thriving Esports ecosystem that provides a variety of career paths for aspiring gamers, coaches, analysts, event organizers, and other professionals at the local level. Going back to the first two points, being part of the Esports equivalent of the NBA or European football club of your city/municipality can be lucrative.
The league will provide long-term support to the Hometown Esports Organizations established for E-Palarong Pambansa so that their members can work in the industry that they're passionate about.
4. Grassroots-Led Esports Tournaments and Activities
With the resources they have, Hometown Esports groups can contribute to the local Esports ecosystem in their area by organizing events to scout players, bring members together, and conduct competitions for amateur Esports groups in their city/municipality.
This can create a cycle of Esports camaraderie and competitive excellence in their communities that can produce better talents and a reason for the continued support from local partners.
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To learn more about the NYC-backed esports tournament circuit, you can visit www.epalaro.com.
Source: E-Palarong Pambansa/Facebook
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