NAOS Esports Reaps Championship in 1st Split of Valorant Challengers League Philippines 

NAOS Esports bagged victory in the recent Valorant Challengers League Philippines (Split 1) 2023. Discover their triumph as we spoke with MCS' very own Noel De Guia, the winning team's Initiator/Flex. 

Written by: Aneesa Quintos Puno

Layout by: Aurora Isabel Madali

March 24, 2023 | 8:00 A.M.

On March 12, 2023, the Grand Finals of the Valorant Challengers League Philippines' first split was held, with NAOS Esports and Oasis Gaming vying for the championship crown. 

NAOS, with a roster composed of Riley 'Witz' Go, Jerome 'Mojer' Literal, John Timothy 'JA' Arone, Federico 'PapiChulo' Evangelista, and Noel 'NDG' De Guia of 12 – St. Isidore the Laborer, outmatched their opponents, 3-1, in the said league. However, despite sweeping Games 2-4 of the match, NAOS had a rough start, losing to Oasis in Game 1.

De Guia had further revealed that their team struggled with chemistry and communication at the start of the Valorant Challengers season, as NAOS had a roster revamp. De Guia stated, “We don't really have that much experience playing together since we are a new build-up team, and there were a lot of expectations of us because we have those 3 [three] experienced veterans, JA, PapiChulo, Witz, combined with [us] young bloods, me and Mojer." Amidst this setback, the team persevered and concentrated on adjusting and improving their weaknesses in preparation for their upcoming matches.

De Guia responded to the question about his reaction after defeating Oasis in the championship match by expressing how ecstatic and proud he was of himself and his team, as their dedication, hard work, and shortcomings had finally paid off. “I dedicate this championship to God, my family, friends, fans, all the people that supported me throughout my journey, and especially to my school, Malate Catholic School, who has been supportive of my endeavor,” said De Guia.

NAOS Esports took home the lion’s share of the PHP 1,500,000 prize pool, which amounts to PHP 600,000, and will compete in the upcoming VCT Challengers & Ascension League.

“We will always be there competing at the highest level; we will always do our best to bring glory to our country. All I can say is good luck to every team out there. Remember, don't miss out on us. NAOS the time!” De Guia uttered with delight.