Smart Omega Mobile Legends: Bang Bang team captain Patrick James “E2Max” Caidic and Call of Duty Mobile team leader Jerrold “Woopiee” Regay shared how esports changed their lives through the Better Today Conversations. This was done under the Power Move Project of PLDT Inc and Smart Communications Inc. (Smart).
“Esports became my stress reliever. It also boosted my morale. It also became my way to support my family during the pandemic. Being able to help them throughout that period definitely had a positive impact on my mental health,” E2Max said.
For Woopiiee, esports helped strengthen his self-esteem. “I was not that great in school, but when I play, people look up to me. That has boosted my self-confidence.”
Both Smart Omega captains have faced many storms that tested their mental resilience including going through their toughest competitors locally and internationally.
Smart Omega: Leading the Way to Make Esports a Safe Space
They also recognized that the toxic culture is present in esports.
“Trash talking has become a norm in games. I used to be part of that toxic culture, but I was able to overcome it. If you want to become a pro, you must change yourself. Skills are important, but so are discipline and having the right attitude,” Woopiiee said.
“If your goal is to win, but you also engage in toxicity, you will get nowhere. You will only lose. Fight toxicity with the right gameplay, boost your team, and you will win,” E2Max said. “Mute toxic players at the start of the game and focus on the game. Make friends within the game and build your own community.”
PLDT and Smart look to uplift and improve the overall digital wellness of Filipinos through their #BetterToday initiative. It underscores the commitment of the two companies to the UN Sustainable Development Goals #3: Good Health and Well-Being.
Watch E2 Max’s video below:
Watch Woopiiee’s video below:
You can learn more about the #BetterToday initiative here.
