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Bicutan, Taguig City — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with key leaders in the Philippine esports and digital innovation sectors, has officially announced a major expansion of ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026, introducing SALPAKAN (Games of the General) and Vi the Game alongside its flagship Mobile Legends National Tournament – Road to the World Cup.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting at DOST Bicutan led by DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, with participation from Chairman Francisco “Popoy” Pagayon (FISMPC–CINCO), Chairman Reynaldo Sanches (ESWF–CINCO), ESWF President Arniel Guttierez, and Henry V. Bayubay, President and CEO of BB 88 Advertising and Digital Solutions Inc. Officers from DOST–CINCO and the Vi the Game Group were also present.
Building a Broader, Homegrown Esports Ecosystem
The inclusion of SALPAKAN, a strategy- and leadership-driven competition, and Vi the Game, an emerging digital platform designed for competitive and educational engagement, transforms ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 into a multi-genre national esports movement.
This expansion highlights the shared commitment of organizers and DOST to support both globally recognized esports titles and Filipino-developed game concepts, strengthening local innovation while sustaining international competitiveness.
“Esports is no longer limited to a single title. By integrating SALPAKAN and Vi the Game, we are building a uniquely Filipino esports ecosystem that values strategy, leadership, innovation, and inclusivity,” organizers said.
Three Competitive Pillars
Presented by BB 88 Advertising and Digital Solutions Inc., produced by CINCO Digital Inc. and the E-Sports World Federation (ESWF), and supported by DOST, ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 will feature three major competition pillars:
- Mobile Legends – Official pathway to the World Cup
- SALPAKAN (Games of the General) – Strategy, leadership, and tactical competition
- Vi the Game – Digital innovation, emerging gameplay, and youth engagement
Inclusive, Nationwide, and Innovation-Driven
ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 is inclusive by design, offering competition categories for Men, Women, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). With FREE entry, the tournament ensures nationwide accessibility and participation.
The event targets the mobilization of 1,200 teams across the Philippines, featuring three months of regional qualifiers leading to live national finals in March 2026.
Aligning Esports with DOST’s Digital Development Agenda
The expanded tournament supports DOST’s mandate to advance digital transformation, creative industries, and youth-led innovation. SALPAKAN and Vi the Game are recognized for promoting critical thinking, leadership, STEM-aligned competencies, and responsible digital engagement, helping prepare Filipino youth for the future workforce.
Beyond Competition: A National Digital Movement
With projected online viewership ranging from 1 to 5 million, ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 is positioned as a major national platform for esports and digital culture, generating:
- New digital and creative industry jobs
- Opportunities for Filipino game developers
- Youth leadership and skills development
- Strong national pride through global and homegrown competition
A Unified Vision for Philippine Esports
Stakeholders reaffirmed their shared commitment to building a sustainable, ethical, and globally competitive Philippine esports ecosystem, where international titles and Filipino-developed games coexist and thrive.
ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 is more than a tournament—it is a national movement that brings together technology, talent, culture, and innovation to propel the Philippines onto the global esports stage.
“ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 – Where the Philippines Enters the Global Arena”(NPO News Team)
