Karl “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno is setting his sights on an Asian Games gold medal as SIBOL prepares to represent the Philippines in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
In an exclusive interview with Maverick Valite of Abante, KarlTzy said he is proud and excited to once again wear the Philippine colors on one of the biggest stages in esports.
“Sobrang nakaka-proud po sa sarili ko and sobrang happy ko na isa ulit ako sa tao na nakapag-represent ng Philippines,” KarlTzy said.
The Filipino MLBB star said SIBOL is sticking to a familiar preparation routine used in previous international competitions, but the team has been increasing the intensity of its practice matches through tougher scrimmages.
“Same lang po sa preparation namin sa mga past tournaments, gaya ng SEA Games. Pero, mas tinatry-harder po namin sa mga scrimmages,” he said.
KarlTzy heads into the Asian Games with significant international experience, including his recent campaign with Team Liquid at the 2026 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Mid Season Cup in Paris.
After that setback, his attention is now firmly on the Philippine national team and the opportunity to compete for the country in Nagoya.
With SIBOL aiming for the top prize, KarlTzy will be among the key players expected to carry the Philippines’ gold-medal hopes in the MLBB competition.
He also welcomed the comments of gymnastics champion Carlos Yulo, who previously recognized the mental demands of eSports and its similarities with traditional sports.
“Masaya po ako na nakakita siya ng similarities sa eSports at sa sports. At tingin ko totoo iyung sinasabi niya,” KarlTzy said.
As one of the Philippines’ biggest names in MLBB, KarlTzy knows the expectations surrounding SIBOL, but he also wants Filipino fans to rally behind the entire delegation competing in Nagoya.
“Shout out sa lahat ng MLBB fans diyan and shout out sa lahat ng Pinoy. Suportahan ninyo ko sa paparating na Asian Games, hindi lang eSports pati na rin iyung ibang sports. Thank you,” he added. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
