In a groundbreaking move, the internationally renowned gaming developer and publisher, MOONTON Games, has forged a strategic partnership with the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) to co-host the M5 World Championship, which is hailed as the world’s largest esports event in the realm of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. This innovative collaboration is poised to ignite the concept of esports tourism, and the championship is all set to kick off in Manila on December 2, 2023.

The partnership was officially sealed with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) at the EVM Convention Center. This milestone marked the formal endorsement of MOONTON Games as the host of this prestigious international championship in Manila. This partnership establishes a robust framework for the seamless execution of the tournament, with expectations of drawing tens of thousands of onsite enthusiasts over a span of three weeks, while simultaneously captivating a global audience of millions of online viewers.

The M5 World Championship stands as the grand culmination of the MLBB 2023 Competitive Season, orchestrated by Moonton. This year’s edition introduces a thrilling Wildcard stage and a boosted prize pool, now standing at an impressive $900,000 USD, up from $800,000 USD. In an exciting development, the World Championship will unfold across two different countries.

The tournament’s commencement will be marked by the Wild Card round, scheduled to take place in Malaysia from November 23 to 26. Subsequently, the Group Stage and Knockout Stage Phase I will unfold at the EVM Convention Center in Quezon City, Philippines, spanning from December 2 to 12. The journey culminates with the Knockout Stage Phase II and the Grand Finals hosted at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila, gracing the period from December 15 to 17.

The M5 World Championship is undeniably a monumental event on the esports calendar, attracting a staggering 22 teams vying for a substantial share of the prize pool. It’s anticipated to draw a diverse and fervent audience, and the DOT aims to transform this diversity into an influx of tourists eager to explore the rich tapestry of the nation.

As a testament to their collaborative commitment, MOONTON Games and the DOT will soon unveil a range of tourism initiatives in conjunction with the championship. This pioneering partnership underscores the burgeoning significance of esports in the Philippines and the immense potential it holds for bolstering the country’s thriving tourism sector.

The M5 World Championship transcends the boundaries of a mere gaming event; it is a jubilant celebration of the global MLBB community. It offers enthusiasts a chance to unite, bask in the excitement of competitive gaming, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality of the Philippines. With an expansive global monthly active user base of 105 million and a legion of esports aficionados worldwide, the M5 World Championship is poised to stand as a truly unforgettable event, leaving an indelible mark on the world of esports tourism.