The Esports Foundation (EF) today appointed the Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO), a coalition of the country’s leading esports companies and personalities, as the Philippines’ official National Team Partner for the Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC), the global nation-based esports competition set to debut in Riyadh from November 2-29, 2026. The appointment reflects Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO)’s role in shaping the Philippines’ esports ecosystem for over 10 years, including bringing together some of the most recognizable names in the industry, including Tier One Entertainment, Mineski Global, TNC Pro Team, and Playbook Esports, with backing from Smart Communications..
As National Team Partner, PeSO will lead the formation of the Philippines’ national teams across multiple game titles, oversee player selection, and establish the structures required to support participation and the growth of esports.
As part of this structure, Leo Andrew Escutin has been appointed as National Team Manager for the Philippines, responsible for day-to-day team operations, coordination across stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with ENC governance and competitive standards.
“The Philippine Esports Organization is honored to be appointed as the national team partner of the Philippines for the upcoming Esports Nations Cup 2026. This designation reflects our continued commitment to developing world-class Filipino esports athletes and strengthening the country’s presence in international competition. We will work closely with our stakeholders to ensure that our national team is fully prepared to represent the Philippines with excellence, discipline, and pride. We look forward to uniting the PH community in support of our athletes as they compete on the global stage,” said Marlon Marcelo, Executive Director, Philippine Esports Organization.
Hans Jagnow, Director, National Team Relations, The Esports Foundation, added: “Filipino players are among the friendliest by nature, but also fierce competitors on the server. We are looking forward to hosting their national delegation at the inaugural Esports Nations Cup, brought to the fans by our partnership with PESO.”
PeSO joins a global roster of National Team Partners awarded across more than 100 nations as part of the Esports Nations Cup’s partnership-led model for national team development.
The EF received more than 630 applications from 150 countries and territories, reflecting the global interest in and opportunity for nation-based esports. The partners represent legacy esports organizations that have shaped their national scenes for decades alongside emerging forces driving the next wave of competitive gaming. The list of organizations and individuals is available on the ENC website and will be updated as additional appointments are confirmed.
“Filipino players are some of the most friendly by heart, but also fierce competitors on the server. We are looking forward to hosting their national delegation at the inaugural Esports Nations Cup, brought to the fans by our partnership with PeSO,” said Hans Jagnow, Director, National Team Relations, The Esports Foundation
In the Philippines, the esports ecosystem is supported by one of Southeast Asia’s largest player bases, with over 67.7 million active gamers and a predominantly mobile-first competitive landscape. The sector is anchored by established teams, tournament organizers, and media platforms, alongside increasing institutional recognition through government support and collegiate integration.
The ENC introduces a structured global framework for national teams at scale, adding a new layer to the esports ecosystem alongside club-based competition. Designed to complement existing structures, the ENC works with local stakeholders closest to the sport to strengthen connections and support long-term national development.
The ENC will launch in Riyadh in November 2026 before moving to a rotating city model. The biennial ENC complements the annual Club-based Esports World Cup (EWC), providing a stable structure for players and long-term investment in national team programs.
Additional information about the Esports Nations Cup will be released in the coming weeks. To stay up to date, visit esportsnationscup.com, and follow ENC on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and follow the Esports Foundation on LinkedIn.
