NEW ESPORTS PRESS CORPS LAUNCHED
A NEW organization for reporters covering esports and gaming beat has been launched with the aim of driving more awareness to the gaming scene which has been dominated by Filipinos as of late.
The organization, called the Philippine Esports Press Corps (PEPC), was founded by former Inquirer esports senior writer XC Enriquez as president and Fragster esports editor and former television reporter Paolo Barcelon as vice president.
In an email message to The Manila Times, Enriquez said that they formed the PEPC with “the Filipino in mind,” noting that the country has been “regularly” sending athletes who represent the country in various international events.
“Esports and gaming is becoming a core part of Filipinos’ lives, and it’s our honor to be able to tell the stories and provide a platform for the industry,” Enriquez said.
Barcelon added that esports could be the “next medal sport” for the Philippines and that their stories need to be told in a country that relies on reputable news sources.
Both said that the PEPC was inspired by other major press corps that cover the major beats, but they also said that it was also inspired by the creation of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League Philippines (MPL-PH) Press Corps.
Enriquez said that they aim to have an “organized, accredited, and proper network of members” across the industry, which can help the industry and the country’s integrity, especially when negotiating with international industry players such as game developers, athletes, and event organizers.
“That way, game developers, athletes, tournament organizers and related people can have a voice through the PEPC’s network of journalists employed by reputable local and international organizations,” Barcelon said.
Barcelon hinted at possible collaborations with private and government agencies to raise awareness about esports and gaming in the country, while also providing a platform for legitimate news media practitioners.
He also said that they aim to build relationships with teams, game developers and other industry stakeholders to expand and improve on esports coverage, as well as to lobby for major event access in big gaming and esports related events.
The group also would initiate discussions with other press organizations such as the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines and the Philippine Sportswriters Association to expand esports coverage while linking up with other industry partners.