Sony Music Philippines, a dominant force in the global music industry, has officially teamed up with the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines, the country’s largest and most popular professional esports league. The landmark partnership is being positioned as a long-term collaboration that will elevate Filipino talent, expand global visibility, and strengthen the intersection between music, gaming, and entertainment as esports continues to evolve into a broader entertainment economy.
Music will serve as the heartbeat of MPL Philippines Season 16, according to the partnership announcement. From theme songs to live performances, the collaboration is designed to enhance fan engagement, deepen community connection, and amplify every highlight and victory throughout the season. The move stands as one of the most dynamic crossovers in the local esports scene, bringing two passionate audiences together under one entertainment banner.
Lee Viloria, PH Esports Head of Business Development and Partnerships at MOONTON Games, said, “MPL Philippines has always been about elevating Filipino talent and providing them a platform to be discovered by global audiences. Partnering with Sony Music Philippines, a global leader in entertainment, allows us to take that mission to a whole new level. It marks a major step forward in integrated entertainment and sets a precedent for future collaborations between esports and entertainment sectors. Together, we’re redefining how fans experience MPL Philippines, turning every play and moment into stories that can be felt, heard, and celebrated beyond the game.”
Roslyn Pineda, General Manager of Sony Music Philippines, also expressed enthusiasm for the venture. “Sony Music Philippines is thrilled to collaborate with prestigious esports league MPL Philippines and align our shared vision of creating experiences that showcase the best of Filipino talent,” she said. “This partnership goes beyond providing exposure. It’s a celebration of youth culture, where music and esports come together to inspire creativity, connection, and self-expression.”
Live performances take center stage
Sony Music artists are set to perform at the MPL Arena, the main tournament hall that will welcome 2,000 offline spectators, and at MPL Festival Superfan City, the newest cultural showcase gathering the MLBB esports and gaming communities to celebrate the eras and legacy of the league through various activations.
The performer lineup puts Filipino music talent front and center. Barq, also known as Arkin Magalona, is a Filipino hip-hop artist and the son of the late iconic Filipino rapper Francis Magalona. His performance is scheduled for the opening day of the Season 16 Playoffs on 22 October. The following day will feature UNXPCTD, the Filipino rap collective behind the hit song “Pass Sa Lowkey” and new single “EA na Taga.”
Nobita, the popular Filipino rock band known for their viral hit “Ikaw Lang,” will serenade the MPL Festival Superfan City crowd along with MPL PH casters on 25 October. Young self-taught singer-songwriter and music producer Ace Banzuelo, known for his song “Muli,” will perform both at MPL Festival Superfan City and the MPL Arena on Grand Finals Day.
| Performance Date | Artist | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| 22 October | Barq (Arkin Magalona) | Filipino hip-hop artist, son of Francis Magalona |
| 23 October | UNXPCTD | “Pass Sa Lowkey” and “EA na Taga” |
| 25 October | Nobita | Viral hit “Ikaw Lang” |
| Grand Finals Day | Ace Banzuelo | “Muli” |
The integration of live music into the esports calendar gives fans more reasons to attend in person and engage with the league beyond the competition itself. By placing artists across multiple days of the playoffs, MPL Philippines and Sony Music Philippines are creating a festival-like atmosphere that reflects the changing expectations of modern esports audiences.
A tribute to the community
This breakthrough initiative serves as the league’s heartfelt tribute to its community and a way to express gratitude to fans for their unwavering support over 16 remarkable seasons. MPL PH has cemented its position as the most-watched local professional esports league, reaching a record-breaking 1.8 million peak concurrent viewers, according to esports analytics platform Esports Charts.
The partnership’s goals include elevating Filipino artists and esports talent, creating new opportunities for global visibility and discovery, and strengthening the connection between music, gaming, and live entertainment. For fans, the result is a richer experience where competitive action is matched by cultural celebration.
As MPL Philippines continues to grow, the collaboration with Sony Music Philippines could set a new standard for how esports leagues work with entertainment companies. The focus on local talent, community engagement, and integrated live events signals a future where gaming is not just about winning matches but about building stories, sounds, and experiences that resonate far beyond the arena.
Fans can follow MPL Philippines and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang through their official social channels and website for more information about Season 16 events, artist appearances, and tournament schedules.