The Philippine government is embracing the esports phenomenon to boost tourism, with the Department of Tourism (DOT) recently signing an agreement with MOONTON Games, a gaming developer.
This memorandum of agreement (MOA) aims to facilitate tours for both local and international fans attending the M5 World Championship in December 2023, set to be held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
M5 is the world’s largest Mobile Legends: Bang Bang or MLBB esports event, which is why approximately 2,000 to 3,000 participants are anticipated to come from around the globe. MOONTON Games Philippines Esports Head, Logan Shaw, expressed excitement about hosting the M5 World Championship in Manila, and said, “The Philippines is one of the biggest Mobile Legends: Bang Bang markets and among the strongest regions in MLBB esports. It is prime time to host the M5 World Championship in Manila, and we are excited to bring local and global MLBB communities together in this memorable event.”
On that note, he also highlighted that they are hoping to “bring a greater level of esports tourism to the nation and simultaneously deliver an exceptional viewership experience to the fans.”
The DOT is extending support for the M5 event, covering various aspects, such as accommodations, event venues, permits, travel documents, airport assistance, and tour facilitation.
According to DOT’s Chief of Staff and Undersecretary Mae Elaine Bathan, this partnership between gaming and tourism represents a significant collaboration that invites the world to experience the excitement of M5 while discovering the beauty of the Philippines as a prime tourist destination.
Furthermore, MOONTON Games will launch a dedicated microsite, offering specialized tour packages for M5 attendees. With participants expected from various parts of the globe, including Indonesia, North America, and the Middle East, the event will be divided between the EVM Convention Center in Quezon City from December 2 to 12, 2023 for the group stage and knockout stage 1, and the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila from December 15 to 17, 2023 for the second knockout phase and the grand finals.
