In a thrilling showdown that lit up Greenhills Mall in San Juan, ONIC x Nine Lives (ONL) has claimed the crown for the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Development League (MDL) Philippines Season 5, defeating Aurora Hunters 4-1 in a best-of-seven Grand Finals series on May 18, 2025.
With thousands of fans tuning in online and cheering live at the venue, ONL put on a commanding display of synergy, strategy, and sheer mechanical skill, cementing their place as one of the strongest contenders in the Filipino MLBB developmental circuit.
A Dream Run to the Top
ONIC x Nine Lives’ road to the championship was nothing short of dominant. The squad blazed through the Group Stage and carried that momentum into the Playoffs, toppling Flair Esports, Uncle Drew Gamer Impact, and the top-seeded Omega Neos on their path to glory.
Their Grand Finals opponents, Aurora Hunters, showed moments of brilliance, but ONL’s coordination and draft mastery ultimately proved too much to handle.
Star-Studded Roster and Key Performances
ONL’s winning lineup featured a blend of rising talent and seasoned poise:
- Lance “Lansu” Misa – EXP Laner
- Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara – Mid Laner
- John Carlo “Caloy” Roma – Roamer
- Alejandro John “Kayn” Sombilon – Jungler
- Mico “Nosia” Guevarra – Gold Laner
- Erdie “Kodrex” Figueroa – Gold Laner
- John Lester “Kryptonite” Parco – Mid Laner
- John Paul “Right” Lugtu – Head Coach
Kayn emerged as the breakout star of the Grand Finals, earning Grand Finals MVP for his exceptional jungle control and clutch plays. “Sobrang saya kasi nag-effort ako at yung mga sacrifices ko naging worth it lahat,” he shared in an emotional post-match interview.
Season Awards: ONL Shines Bright
ONL’s dominance wasn’t limited to just the finals. The team secured multiple honors at the MDL Philippines Season 5 Awards Ceremony, including:
- Best EXP Laner: Lance “Lansu” Misa (ONL)
- Best Roamer: John Carlo “Caloy” Roma (ONL)
- Best Mid Laner & Regular Season MVP: Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara (ONL)
- Most Improved Player: Alejandro John “Kayn” Sombilon (ONL)
- Rookie of the Season: Mico “Nosia” Guevarra (BLA Bear Esports)
- Best Jungler: John Paul “H2WO” Salonga (Omega Neos)
- Best Gold Laner: Christian “West” Mangabay (Omega Neos)
MOONTON Games Commits to Grassroots Growth
Lee Viloria, Head of Business Development and Partnerships at MOONTON Games Philippines, praised the season’s success:
“MDL Philippines once again served its purpose in discovering a new wave of talents… Hosting the Grand Finals in the mall is our way of keeping our supportive community alive and bringing the tournament closer to the grassroots.”
The event, co-presented by realme, and supported by Maya, TT Racing, and GH Mall, was held under the supervision of the Games and Amusements Board (GAB).
With their MDL PH Season 5 championship secured, all eyes are now on what lies ahead for ONIC x Nine Lives. Will this victory catapult them into the MPL Philippines? Given their momentum and the spotlight on players like Sionnn and Kayn, the leap to the pro stage seems not just possible—but inevitable.
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