The grand final of the MLBB Pro League Philippines Season 13 concluded yesterday evening (5/26) saw an electrifying showdown between two titans of Filipino MLBB, recently rebranded under international esports organizations: Liquid Echo and Falcons AP Bren. And it was Liquid Echo who emerged triumphant, displaying remarkable progress and a winning mentality since the regular season ended.
This victory marks Liquid Echo’s second title in the last three seasons. Their previous triumph came during MPL PH Season 11 in April 2023, where they defeated the perennial powerhouse, Blacklist International. However, they went trophyless for the remainder of 2023, failing to secure any major titles.
Prior to this final, Liquid Echo had been seen as the second-best in the competition, with many favoring Falcons AP Bren to secure back-to-back titles, given their consistent performance this season. However, Liquid Echo adapted impressively to their opponents’ tactics and dominated nearly every game.
From the very start, Liquid Echo relentlessly pressed Falcons AP Bren, adapting effectively to every counter. The opening game saw both teams trading blows equally, but it was the energetic gameplay of “KarlTzy” Nepomuceno and Sanford “Sanford” Vinuya that secured Liquid Echo an important teamfight victory mid-game, leading to an 11-7 win in just 14 minutes.
The aggression continued as the Purple Orca army stormed The Hives in the next two games. The same duo carried on their onslaught in Game 2, finishing with a commanding 16-6 victory. Game 3 saw Alston “Sanji” Pabico shine with his Valentina, leading to Falcons AP Bren’s destruction within 17 minutes and securing match point.
Entering Game 4, Falcons AP Bren hoped to extend the series by ramping up their aggressiveness. Led by Marco “Super Marco” Requitiano and David “FlapTzy” Canon, the defending champions controlled the map and led on the scoreboard by the 10th minute.
However, Liquid Echo remained resilient under pressure, patiently waiting for an opportunity. That opportunity came at the 18:30 mark when Falcons AP Bren made a crucial error in a teamfight around Lord, giving Liquid Echo the opening they needed. Sanji then led his team to a final push, sealing the victory with a 14-18 win.
As the winner of MPL PH S13, Liquid Echo claimed the lion’s share of the US$150,000 prize pool and a spot in MSC 2024 in Saudi Arabia this summer, alongside runner-up Falcons AP Bren. Given their determined performance this season, expect Liquid Echo to go all out in their quest for their first MSC title.
