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Sports

GAB sees steady rise of esports

Sports

GAB sees steady rise of esports

By Manila Bulletin Sports

By NIKOLE JAVIER

Games and Amusement Board (GAB) anticipates esports to continue its steady rise in the Philippines.

The government regulatory body for professional sports has issued most of its licenses and permits in 2021 and 2022 to esports with 961 and 149, respectively.

With the rise of numbers in recent years, GAB is still seeing the stronghold of the event in professional sports which leads to more approved tournaments.

Flow Asia Events Management, one of the biggest organizers of esports in the countr,y is holding the Special Force Rush Uprising, a three-leg tournament under the supervision and regulation of the GAB.

The first part of the tournament will be held in Cebu on Friday, Nov. 5, which will be followed by the second leg in Cavite on Nov. 18 and conclude in Davao on Nov. 19.

“Reason why I mentioned esports is because esports is one of the sports that fast-growing currently as early as the third quarter of the year,” said Dr. Jesucito M. Garcia, head of pro basketball and pro sports division, during an online press conference on Friday, Nov. 4.

“We are very much sure that Esports is going to be a fast income, generating professional sports. Meaning, they’re going to be continuing to contribute not only to professional sports but as well as to the revenue of the government,” continued Garcia.

With professional leagues almost back in full swing, GAB is awaiting the appointment of its new chairman by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

“We are still waiting, wala pa pong ina-appoint. Actually, we’re also excited. It’s up to the president,” said GAB officer-in-charge and legal chief Atty. Ermar Benitez.

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