Photo credit: Blacklist Internationa

In a shocking turn of events in the world of Philippine esports, Blacklist International has officially cut ties with the embattled Lunatix organization.

The decision comes after a series of allegations surrounding the lack of support and resources for the Blacklist Lunatix team, who competes in the Mobile Legends Development League (MDL) Philippines.

Blacklist International released a statement confirming their decision, stating, "After going through an internal investigation, Blacklist International has decided to terminate our partnership with the Lunatix organization, effective immediately. We will also be taking over the management of the MDL team from today until the end of the season. We hope you’ll support Blacklist Academy throughout the rest of their MDL season."

The move has sent shockwaves through the local esports community, prompting MDL Philippines to initiate its own investigation. MDL Philippines is a developmental league that aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment for esports players to flourish.

They issued a statement saying, "We are aware of the situation concerning Blacklist Lunatix and are currently investigating this issue. All teams are encouraged to prioritize player welfare to ensure that they are given the best platform to pursue professional esports growth."

In an exclusive interview with SPIN.ph, Eviann Balquin, the team manager of Blacklist Lunatix, shed light on the dire circumstances faced by the team. One of the primary reasons cited for the team's underperformance was a severe lack of preparation and resources.

"Ang nangyari kasi, nag-struggle kami papasok ng MDL PH. Week 1 pa lang, bago pumasok ng MDL PH, nag-struggle kami financially dahil hindi nagpapadala yung boss namin (Lunatix). Gutom yung players, and yung sa phone, sobrang outdated," explained Balquin.

Balquin further revealed that the team was abruptly evicted from their boot camp in Bulacan just before the MDL season began, leading to a hasty relocation to the residence of the country manager's mother. The team struggled with outdated equipment and a lack of adequate internet connectivity.

"Wala kaming naging practice sa international kase hindi Converge yung internet namin. Kapag international yung ka-scrim mo, kailangan Converge," said Balquin.

Moreover, Lunatix allegedly failed to fulfill their commitment to provide food expenses and player salaries, further exacerbating the team's woes.

"Minsan lang siya (Lunatix) magpadala e. Kada-buwan, isang beses lang magpapadala yung boss sa amin. Tapos ang padala, P2,500. Paano mo ikakasya yun sa isang buwan?" lamented Balquin.

As the situation deteriorated, Blacklist International extended a helping hand by providing essential services, gaming chairs, and phones to the beleaguered team. Balquin emphasized the importance of Blacklist's support, stating, "Si Blacklist ang na-help niya sa amin is service, sobrang importante yung service na iyon."

Ultimately, Blacklist International allowed the team to seek alternative organizations, as they were not receiving their salaries from Lunatix for several months.

The revelations have raised serious questions about the role and responsibility of organizations within the esports ecosystem, especially concerning the welfare and support of players.

As the investigation into the matter continues, the future of Blacklist Lunatix and the MDL Philippines league remains uncertain.