The Predator League Philippine Finals for Dota 2 came to a thrilling end at SM North EDSA Cyberzone on November 12, 2023, with Made in Philippines (MIPH) emerging as the champions after defeating Smurfers 2-0.
The showdown showcased the determination and skill of both teams, who had overcome formidable opponents in the semifinals. Smurfers had pulled off a stunning comeback against Neon Esports, led by veterans Wong “ChuaN” Hock Chuan and Ryan “Raging Potato” Qui, winning 2-1. MIPH had dominated InterActive Philippines, sweeping them 2-0.
In the best-of-three series, MIPH proved to be the stronger team, winning both games convincingly. In Game 1, they took control of the midlane with Julius “JG” Galeon’s Storm Spirit, and exploited the teamfight potential of Glenard “Rupido” Rugay’s Dark Seer. In Game 2, they weathered the storm of Smurfers’ Philip “Karma” Torres and Ivan Neil “Fiend” Valencia, who had recovered from a rough start with their Phantom Assassin and Templar Assassin. MIPH executed their fights flawlessly, securing the victory and the trophy.
Kryte “LuziFy” Gabriel, who played the position five support role for MIPH, was voted by the fans as the Intel MVP of the series. He received a Predator Helios Neo 16 laptop and ₱10,000 as prizes.
With their triumph in the Philippine Finals, MIPH earned the right to represent the country in the Asia Pacific Predator League 2024 Grand Finals, which will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena from January 13 to 14, 2024. They also received ₱250,000 in cash, while Smurfers got ₱100,000 as the runners-up. Neon Esports and InterActive Philippines each received ₱55,000 for their third and fourth-place finishes.
MIPH’s Cinderella story is not over yet, as they will face tougher challenges in the Grand Finals. They will compete against some of the best Dota 2 teams in the region, including Blacklist International, Execration, and the defending champions, Polaris Esports.
The event concluded with a performance by Filipino rock band Urbandub, who played their hit song ‘Anthem’ to celebrate MIPH’s victory.
For more information and updates about Predator League, visit www.facebook.com/PredatorGamingPhilippines or the official website www.predator-league.com.
Image: Made in the Philippines (MIPH)
