The Mobile Legends Development League (MDL) in the Philippines has confirmed that they have launched an investigation into allegations of match-fixing in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) esports scene. So far, one former coach of a college team has been banned, two players will have their contracts terminated and another player has been subjected to suspension.
On Thursday, various players and teams within the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) community lent their voices to the growing discussions on social media regarding suspected match-fixing within the esports sector. The MDL, Philippines, alongside various other team stakeholders, also confirmed their commitment to fully cooperate in the ongoing investigation and come down hard on those found guilty.
More specifically, one former college esports coach was issued a life ban, two players’ contracts with the MDL will be terminated and another player has also been suspended from the League.
MDL, which is the amateur version of the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL), released a statement on Thursday evening indicating that an investigation was already underway.
“We’re closely following the chatter within the community regarding the speculated game-fixing in MDL Philippines Season 3 and intend to diligently investigate these accusations,” read the statement. “MDL Philippines upholds professionalism in high esteem and does not condone match-fixing or any activity that compromises the tournament’s integrity.”
The controversy initially gained traction when Francis “Ducky” Glindro, an AP.Bren coach in MPL Philippines, issued a stern warning against match-fixing on social media.
“To those who manipulated your games in MDL PH S3, I’ll see to it you’re discovered and sent packing. The culprits amongst you know yourselves. I’m coming for you,” he cautioned on his Facebook post.
Billy “Z4pnu” Alfonso, a former gold laner for Smart Omega, also chimed in with a post denouncing such fraudulent activities.
Soon after, Ducky exposed the Facebook profile of one Jigen Paul, showing a screenshot that purportedly offered P100,000 for involvement in fixed matches within the MPL and/or MDL.
Jigen Paul Masangkay had previously worked as a coach for UST Teletigers (TGR) Esports Club, the official esports unit of University of Santo Tomas.
Following the controversy, TGR confirmed they had dismissed Masangkay and issued a permanent ban barring him from any participation in future activities and events associated with the club.
While TNCZ4- an academy team from TNC Pro Team- announced the suspension of their jungler named Jhonjie Paul “Jiee” Dela Rosa, following an internal investigation.
The ONIC Philippines affiliate team, ONIC Arsenals, also confirmed their cooperation with the investigation efforts.
Meanwhile, RSG Philippines declared that two players from its MDL squad El Ganador, identified as Raven “Aeris” Arellano and Christian John “Nyija” Calantoc, would have their contracts terminated.
This story is unfolding and will be updated as new information becomes available.