MANILA, May 16, 2025 — International esports giant Natus Vincere (NAVI) has officially stepped into the Philippines’ Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) scene. The team has acquired Smart Omega Empress (OMGE), one of the region’s top-performing women’s squads.
NAVI MLBB Philippines Acquisition: A Strategic Expansion into Southeast Asia
The NAVI MLBB Philippines acquisition marks a major step in the organization’s expansion into Southeast Asia. The Philippines is known for its strong esports community. As a result, NAVI sees the country as a key market for growth. Jonathan Yuwono, General Manager at NAVI, shared, “The Philippines has a rich esports culture. Entering through Smart Omega Empress gives us a strong foundation to do something bigger here.”
Supporting Women in Esports Through NAVI MLBB Philippines Acquisition
Smart Omega Empress (OMGE) made headlines last year by winning the MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI) at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. Now, under NAVI, they aim to continue breaking barriers. According to Lee Viloria, PH Esports Head of Business Development, “NAVI’s move shows a commitment to growing women’s esports. It offers young Filipinas a clear path to professional gaming.”
Expanding Across the Region with MLBB Women’s Teams
In addition to OMGE, NAVI has also acquired Arcane, a top MLBB women’s team from Malaysia. Arcane already secured a slot in this year’s MWI at the Esports World Cup. Together, the two teams reflect the ambition behind the NAVI MLBB Philippines acquisition—to lead and grow the women’s MLBB scene in Southeast Asia.
Eyes on the Prize: OMGE Targets MWI Title Defense
OMGE is now preparing for the MWI PH Qualifier at the Athena League playoffs, which will run from May 23 to 25, 2025. The team is determined to win back-to-back titles under NAVI’s banner. “Smart Omega Empress has a legacy of international victories. That fits our mission—we aim to work with champions and build success together,” said Yuwono.
A Seamless Transition for NAVI MLBB Philippines Acquisition
NAVI praised both Smart Omega and Arcane for their smooth cooperation during the buyout process. “We thank both clubs for making this transition seamless. We look forward to what the future holds,” the organization stated.
About Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB)
MLBB is the world’s most played mobile MOBA game. It has over 1.5 billion installs and 110 million active users monthly. Available in 139 countries, MLBB is especially popular in Asia and is a major name in mobile esports.
About MOONTON Games
MOONTON, founded in 2014, is the developer behind MLBB. The company runs global operations and supports professional leagues in over 30 countries. MLBB is its flagship title and a major force in mobile gaming and esports. Find out more here in Moonton’s Official Website.
