The Philippine Esports Organization is tackling the new year with high hopes and optimism as history beckons the sport with the first-ever Esports Olympic games in 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Although nothing’s set in stone yet when it comes to the events to be included in the global meet, the Esports Olympics is said to be featuring games classified as six of each traditional esports, simulation games and six virtual games.

And that’s exactly where the optimism stems for the Sibol National team according to general manager Jab Escutin.

Escutin said it only puts the Philippines on equal footing against the big countries which have the capability to fund their respective national teams. 

“To be honest, I'm very excited about those things, especially if we get first access to it. Kasi it puts us in a level playing field kung saan tayo yung magaling. I believe that the Filipino talent is very good at deciphering yung games and that’s where we can take advantage of certain mechanics, ‘di ba?” said Escutin.

Escutin, who is working hand in hand with Philippine Esports Organization executive director Marlon Marcelo, vowed that Sibol will be putting its best foot forward when it comes to preparations to ensure that the national athletes will be ready regardless of what games would be included in the Olympics.

Of course, Marcelo is hopeful that the game titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, where the country is known as a powerhouse region, would be included in the Olympics.

“Still waiting for the final details kung ano yung first iteration. So, we're on standby. Kahit kami medyo bulag, but we're doing our best to prepare because kunwari, magkaroon ng ML:BB,‘di ba? Eh ‘di laban na ‘yun,” said Marcelo while noting that the last five world champions in MLBB are all Filipino teams.

“This is a high time for us, a bigger chance for us if we actually snag a gold medal sa Olympics,” he added.