When news of the match-fixing scandal hit the MLBB Pro League Malaysia, many Southeast Asian MLBB fans worriedly questioned if a similar case would arise in the near future. Now it seems they have found the answer as similar case has sparked an investigation into the MLBB professional scene in the Philippines.
Last night, AP Bren’s head coach, Francis “Ducky” Glindro, took to his personal Facebook page to issue a stern warning. He hinted at illicit activities within the ongoing MLBB Development League Philippines Season 3, which is one of Moonton’s franchise leagues.
The two-time MLBB world champion warned, “If you fixed your matches in MDL Philippines S3, best believe I will find out and you are all going home. You know who you are and I’m coming for you.” And he clearly was not trying to play it cool as he showed up with another post hour later, revealing the alleged culprit as the former Teletigers coach, Jigen Paul.
In response to Ducky’s claims, Teletigers management quickly issued a public statement regarding Jigen’s tenure with the team. The management team stated Paul has been inactive since late November 2023 and stressed that “the organization, its management, the MLBB managerial staff, and players were completely unaware of the external actions of Jigen Paul.“
The ripple effects of Ducky’s reports were not confined to mere words and posturing. The swift hand of justice was felt across the Philippine MLBB scene as penalties were meted out. TNC Z4 moved decisively, suspending player Jhonjie Paul “Jiee” Dela Rosa, while RSG Ganador severed ties with its members, Raven “Aeris” Arellano and Christian John “Nyija” Calanto.
In response to the growing specter of match-fixing, the MDL PH officials pledged to undertake a full investigation, signaling a steadfast commitment to cleanse their league of such unsavory practices. Given the magnitude of the scandals that shook Malaysia and the Philippines, it’s likely other regions will take swift action to uphold the integrity of professional MLBB esports.
