Esports Boom in Southeast Asia: How Indonesia and the Philippines Are Leading Competitive Gaming
Southeast Asia is quickly becoming a powerhouse in competitive gaming, led by Indonesia and the Philippines. The region’s growth is driven by a 'mobile-first' revolution, with massive fan engagement and rising sponsorship deals. Traditional sports now face strong competition from esports leagues like Indonesia’s MPL ID, which ranks among the most-watched in the country.
The Philippines has cemented its reputation in esports through both skill and strategy. Teams like TNC Predator made history in Dota 2 by winning the World Electronic Sports Games (WESG) 2016 and defeating top rivals at The International. Meanwhile, Bren Esports and Blacklist International dominated Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), with Bren claiming the M2 World Championship in a thrilling seven-game final against Burmese Ghouls. Blacklist later popularised the 'Ultimate Bonding Experience' (UBE) strategy on their way to victory at the M3 World Championship.
The country’s success extends beyond MLBB. Team Secret’s Valorant roster regularly competes in the global Champions Tour, showcasing the region’s depth of talent. A strong regulatory framework for gaming, including online casinos, has also helped the industry grow, offering fans diverse entertainment options. Indonesia plays a key role in this boom. Its huge population and improving digital infrastructure make it the economic engine of Southeast Asian esports. The MPL ID league draws massive audiences, with fans engaging in live discussions, content creation, and even online betting. This interactive culture has turned esports into a social experience, further fuelling its popularity.
Southeast Asia’s esports scene continues to expand, backed by high mechanical skill and innovative strategies. The Philippines and Indonesia lead the charge, with teams achieving global success in games like MLBB, Dota 2, and Valorant. As mobile gaming and fan interaction grow, the region’s influence in competitive esports looks set to strengthen further.
