In the world of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Smart Omega has built more than a competitive esports team—it has built a community.

Beyond the matches, highlights, and tournament runs, one of Smart Omega’s biggest achievements continues to happen outside the arena through Barangay Smart Omega, the fan community that has grown alongside the organization over the years.

For the Smart Communications-backed team, every game represents the people supporting them from the sidelines, online streams, and packed venues. That connection with fans continues to shape the organization’s grassroots efforts aimed at developing esports communities from the local level upward.

“Sobrang halaga ng cheers lalo na pag nasa venue, at kahit wala sa venue, nakaka-boost ng confidence, parang gusto ko pa lalo itodo,” said Smart Omega Jungler Dean “Raizen” Sumagui.

Among the team’s initiatives is Community Wars, a post-MPL PH platform that gives aspiring MLBB players an opportunity to compete in organized matches. Over time, the program has also become a pathway for amateur teams looking to break into the professional scene.

Teams such as Maru Esports, now known as Dewa United PH, and Code Unknown Quantum Minds, now CU X Godz Quantum Minds, previously competed through Community Wars before advancing to MDL PH, considered an important stepping stone toward professional esports.

The same community-driven approach also powers Smart Omega’s Community Watch Parties, which continue to expand across Quezon City districts. Instead of watching matches alone, fans gather in their own neighborhoods to support the team together, turning every game into a shared experience.

“Thank you sa suporta n’yo, kasi sa hirap at ginhawa, nandyan pa rin kayo para sa amin. Hindi kami sumusuko. Hintayin n’yo lang, malay ninyo, dumating yung panahon na mapapasaamin naman momentum ng MPL, eh di pare-parehas tayong masaya,” said Smart Omega Gold Laner Kenneth “Netskie” Barro.

Fan participation extends beyond watch parties. Through initiatives like Quest for the Vest, supporters can earn rewards and exclusive experiences by attending events, collecting badges, and participating in activities such as bootcamp raids.

Online, fans continue to contribute to the growing identity of Barangay Smart Omega by sharing reactions, highlights, and personal experiences through SuperFan content across digital platforms.

For supporters who want to compete instead of just spectate, Fansiklaban gives players the chance to represent Smart Omega through MLBB tournaments and rankings. Barangay Smart Omega participants are currently among the Top 4 teams on the leaderboard.

Supporting these initiatives are Smart and TNT, long-time backers of Philippine esports and gaming communities.

“Our continued support for Smart Omega and its community is a commitment to our fans and to the sustained growth of the esports ecosystem in the Philippines,” said Lloyd Manaloto, Smart co-OIC.

Smart recently introduced its All-New Postpaid Plans+ with Unli Apps, including the Play Bundle designed for gamers who rely on uninterrupted access to Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and other online games.

The enhanced plans are supported by Smart’s mobile network, which was recently recognized by Ookla® for Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency. These awards reflect improvements in gaming responsiveness, streaming quality, and overall mobile connectivity for subscribers.

“Through our expansive 5G network, value-for-money products, and reliable services, we help enable gamers and the esports community to connect, compete, and thrive,” Manaloto added.

From smaller gatherings to packed esports venues, Smart Omega’s community continues to grow season after season. For Barangay Smart Omega, success goes beyond tournament results—it’s about building a community that stays connected through every win and loss.

➤ SEE: PLDT INNOLAB