Philippine esports body named National Team Partner for Esports Nations Cup 2026

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO) has been appointed as the Philippines’ official National Team Partner for the Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC). This marks the country’s formal entry into the newly launched global, nation-based esports competition set to debut in Riyadh from November 2-29.

“The Philippine Esports Organization is honored to be appointed as the national team partner of the Philippines for the upcoming Esports Nations Cup 2026. This designation reflects our continued commitment to developing world-class Filipino esports athletes and strengthening the country’s presence in international competition. We will work closely with our stakeholders to ensure that our national team is fully prepared to represent the Philippines with excellence, discipline, and pride. We look forward to uniting the Philippine community in support of our athletes as they compete on the global stage,” said PeSO Executive Director Marlon Marcelo.

As the country’s recognized National Sports Association and governing body for esports, PeSO will lead the formation of Philippine national teams across multiple game titles, oversee player selection, and establish the operational framework needed for participation at the ENC and beyond.

To support the national team structure, Leo Andrew Escutin, who is currently the general manager of the country's national esports team Sibol, has been appointed as National Team Manager for the Philippines. He will be responsible for day-to-day operations, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with ENC governance and competitive standards.

For the ENC organizers, the appointment highlights both the scale and competitiveness of the Philippine esports scene.

“Filipino players are some of the most friendly by heart, but also fierce competitors on the server. We are looking forward to hosting their national delegation at the inaugural Esports Nations Cup, brought to the fans by our partnership with PeSO,” said Hans Jagnow, director of national team relations at The Esports Foundation (EF).

PeSO joins a global roster of national team partners selected from more than 630 applications submitted by organizations across 150 countries and territories. According to the EF, successful partners include both long-standing esports institutions and emerging organizations that have shaped their local competitive scenes.

The ENC 2026 will launch in Riyadh before transitioning to a rotating host city model in future editions. Additional details, including participating game titles and further national team appointments, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.