DOST, CINCO Digital, ESWF, and BB 88 Expand ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 to Include SALPAKAN and Vi the Game Competitions

Sports | ESPORT Posted on 2026-01-07 07:45:56

Bicutan, Taguig City — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with leaders from the Philippine esports and digital innovation sectors, has announced a major expansion of ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026, introducing SALPAKAN (Games of the General) and Vi the Game alongside its flagship Mobile Legends National Tournament – Road to the World Cup.

The announcement came during a high-level meeting at DOST Bicutan led by DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, joined by Chairman Francisco “Popoy” Pagayon (FISMPC–CinCo), Chairman Reynaldo Sanches (ESWF–CinCo), ESWF President Arniel Guttierez, and Henry V. Bayubay, President and CEO of BB 88 Advertising and Digital Solutions Inc., along with officers from DOST–CinCo and the Vi-the Game Group.

A Broader, Homegrown Esports Ecosystem

The inclusion of SALPAKAN, a strategy-based, leadership-driven competition, and Vi the Game, a rising digital platform designed for competitive and educational engagement, transforms ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 into a multi-genre national esports movement.

This expansion demonstrates organizers’ and DOST’s commitment to support both global esports titles and Filipino-developed game genres, reinforcing local innovation while maintaining international competitiveness.

“Esports is no longer limited to a single title. By integrating SALPAKAN and Vi the Game, we are building a uniquely Filipino esports ecosystem that values strategy, leadership, innovation, and inclusivity,” organizers said.

Multi-Pillar Competition Structure

Presented by BB 88 Advertising and Digital Solutions Inc., produced by CINCO Digital Inc. and E-Sports World Federation (ESWF), and supported by DOST, the tournament will feature three competitive pillars:

· Mobile Legends – Official pathway to the World Cup

· SALPAKAN (Games of the General) – Strategy, leadership, and tactical competition

· Vi the Game – Digital innovation, emerging gameplay, and youth engagement

Inclusive, Nationwide, and Innovation-Driven

ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 is inclusive by design, offering categories for Men, Women, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), with FREE entry to ensure nationwide accessibility. The tournament will mobilize 1,200 teams across the Philippines, with three months of qualifiers culminating in live national finals in March 2026.

Aligning Esports with DOST’s Digital Development Agenda

The expanded tournament aligns with DOST’s mandate to promote digital transformation, creative industries, and youth-driven innovation. SALPAKAN and Vi the Game are recognized for fostering critical thinking, leadership, STEM-aligned skills, and responsible digital engagement, equipping Filipino youth with competencies for the future workforce.

Beyond Competition: A National Digital Movement

With projected online viewership of 1–5 million, ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 is positioned as a national platform for esports and digital culture, generating:

· New digital and creative jobs

· Opportunities for Filipino game developers

· Youth leadership and skills development

· Strong national pride through global and local competition

A Unified Vision for Philippine Esports

Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to building a sustainable, ethical, and globally competitive Philippine esports ecosystem, where international titles and homegrown games coexist and thrive.

ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 is more than a tournament—it is a national movement combining technology, talent, culture, and innovation to propel the Philippines onto the global esports stage.

“ENTER BATTLE ZONE 2026 – Where the Philippines Enters the Global Arena”