Liga Adarna is a Fortress for Girl Gamers

Back in 2016, I was living my life as a data analyst in one of the biggest BPO companies in the Philippines. I gave birth to a wonderful angel and I was happily living my life the way any mother should— but I wasn’t like any mother. During the extra time I got after work and taking care of my baby, I played DOTA 2. I played every chance I got, no matter how small. It was a passion, an escape, and soon enough, a mission.

At the time, the world of esports in the Philippines was slowly developing and taking notice. When TNC defeated two-time Major champions and fan favorites OG in The International 2016 (TI6), all eyes were on us and dreams started to take form.

Philippine esports while in its infancy was developed by big names in the industry. Just like in most countries, it was dominated by men. From backbone to limelight, this world didn’t seem to be a place for women like me.

In 2019, the industry started to take color and business entities noticed. I was approached by someone to start an all-women’s team. While I knew a lot of worthy and willing female players, we couldn’t find enough tournaments to showcase them. The only major all-women’s esports tournament available in the Philippines was a Singapore-based tournament created by Tammy Tang called Female Esports League (FSL).

But this wasn’t enough, as there were still too many unrealized talents and opportunities. And so we founded Liga Adarna. We wanted to create more spaces where we can showcase the talents of so many female players in the industry.

The birth of Liga Adarna has not only given opportunities to aspiring and pro players alone. We have also opened a platform for multiple esports careers such as shout-casting, hosting, and content creation. And as we enter our 3rd season this April with major partnerships, you’d think that the community has fully accepted women in Gaming. This isn’t the case, however, and we’ve got a long way to go before the gender bias and stereotyping are completely removed.

In 2021, I haven’t been playing a lot of DOTA 2 anymore. I’ve left my day job and decided to focus on managing Liga Adarna. I’ve also moved on to other competitive games. In 2021, I am still called many names— noob, bobo, and poser being the most popular. In 2021, I am still hesitant to use voice chat when I play with random players, in fear of being judged. In 2021, I am still negatively-labeled based on my gender alone. And still in 2021, the go-to reactions when they hear you’re a female gamer are to simp or to bash.

Liga Adarna is a start. I see it as a fortress that will hold the most talented female players and esports talents in the country. It will be a stronghold that will lead to a better gaming community, where we as women will gain the respect of being treated as equal opponents.

I am a mother in the gaming industry. I work, I mom, I play, and yes, I still go to the kitchen to make myself a sandwich.

And then I go back playing.