Riot Games PH Celebrates Filipino Community for VALORANT’s Fifth Anniversary
Photo from VALORANT
Riot Games PH Celebrates Filipino Community for VALORANT’s Fifth Anniversary
MANILA— Riot Games Philippines launched a month-long celebration to mark the fifth anniversary of VALORANT, its popular 5v5 character-based tactical shooter. The campaign puts Filipino players and communities front and center, with online and offline events running from June to July 2025.
The anniversary activations aim to showcase VALORANT’s deep cultural footprint in the country, highlighting contributions from local players, creators, and esports talents that helped grow the game in the Philippines.
Global success, local growth
Launched as “Project A” during the early pandemic in 2020, VALORANT quickly rose to global success. The game now draws over 35 million monthly players, with more than 70% from Gen Z. It recently became the most-viewed FPS esports title, reaching a 9.1 million peak viewership during the 2024 Champions Seoul tournament.
In its five-year run, VALORANT earned major accolades, including Best Esports Game at The Game Awards (2022 and 2023), Esports Game of the Year 2024, and a Sports Emmy nomination in 2025. The Philippines also recognized VALORANT with the Esports Game Title of the Year at the 2024 Philippine Esports Awards.
Pinoy players take the spotlight
VALORANT’s rise in the Philippines has brought Filipino players and teams to the international stage. Team Secret continues to represent the country globally, while NAOS Esports recently finished second in a VCT Challengers split. Individual talents are also making waves, including Patrick “PatMen” Mendoza, who joined Southeast Asia powerhouse Paper Rex ahead of Masters Toronto 2025.
“We want to highlight the role of the Filipino community in shaping VALORANT’s journey,” said Jason Roberto, Brand Manager for VALORANT at Riot Games PH. “From grassroots play to pro-level competition, their stories have helped define the game in the region.”
“Bakit VALORANT?” campaign kicks off
The fifth anniversary celebration in the Philippines revolves around one theme: “Bakit VALORANT?”. Riot PH kicked off the campaign on June 2 with a tribute video, featuring gameplay moments, community highlights, and esports milestones.
Other content includes:
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Humans of VALORANT, a mini-documentary featuring everyday Filipino players and their journeys
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A feature on local creators such as Damods, Razzie, and Amara, showcasing how VALORANT influenced their careers
On-ground activations bring celebration to the streets
Riot PH is also launching on-ground activities across Metro Manila. One key highlight is a large-scale mural at the Tenement Basketball Court in Taguig, painted by Filipino street artist Jappy Agoncillo, featuring visuals inspired by the local VALORANT community.
The celebration also includes Jeepney Karaokes, where traditional jeepneys are transformed into mobile karaoke booths to bring the sound and energy of VALORANT to the public.
For the players
VALORANT’s fifth anniversary campaign is designed for all players — from casual gamers to professional competitors.
“In the Philippines, we don’t say ‘Laro tayo,’ we say ‘Tara, VALO,’” said Roberto. “This celebration is our way of thanking the community that continues to support and grow the game.”
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