Initially set to stage its offline games starting Week 5, MPL Philippines announced that its on-site matches were moved to an earlier date and will kick off on the third week instead.
“The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League - Philippines (MPL-PH) Season 9 gets the green light from Games and Amusements Board (GAB) to go offline from the 3rd week of the regular season up to the playoffs. GAB initially confirmed the approval to have the games on-site from Week 5 onward,” the league said in a statement on Monday, Feb. 14.
GAB approved the March 4 start of the offline games but will remain behind closed doors as no live audience will be allowed in the venue.
The same protocol which Manila Bulletin first reported will be in place, including the swab testing of the participants and isolation of potential cases.
“During the period, strict health and safety protocols will be implemented such as having swab tests and limiting the number of personnel entering in the venue,” the statement reads.
“There will also be a roving safety officer to ensure everyone follows the rules. Safety and sanitation kits will be shared with all attendees and potential cases will be isolated,” it added.
The venue will be limited to players, casters, and staff for safety purposes. There will also be no audience during the games, but fans can stream the matches at the comfort of their homes through MPL-PH's official social media platforms - Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.