The MPL-Philippines family united on Thursday night after a number of fans threw homophobic remarks towards one of its members.
Just moments after Blacklist International’s seven-game winning streak was snapped by defending champion Bren Esports, a handful of viewers made some disgusting comments directed at Blacklist captain Johnmar “OhMyV33NUS” Villaluna.
OhMyV33NUS is a proud member of the LGBT community.
Shoutcasters such as Neil “Midnight” De Guzman and Renmar “Reptar” Sta. Cruz quickly leaped to the defense of the former ONIC PH support, slamming the viewers who hurled hate comments in the MPL-Philippines live stream.
“Sad to see people go like that when Blacklist lost. I get it, it’s a competition but these comments are just geared towards hatred and insensitivity. We, as a community, are as one during these times and during the amazing tournament season,” posted Midnight, who served as an analyst for today’s Filipino broadcast.
“You can support a team without having to hurl discriminating remarks targeted at a person’s race, physical appearance, gender, socioeconomic status, or anything. That’s how you can #BeLegendary in your own little way,” echoed the son of veteran broadcaster Rene Sta. Cruz.
The two also reminded everyone to be responsible viewers and at the same time, respectful.
Meanwhile, the Blacklist Agents — the ever-supportive legion of fans behind Blacklist International — lauded the Bren Esports social media handlers for quickly blocking all people with homophobic remarks right after the match.
The Agents also poured their support to the ‘Queen’ on their Facebook group.
Blacklist International’s unbeaten streak was ended by the defending champions earlier today via a reverse 2-1 sweep.
The Tier One-backed squad will next face Execration tomorrow at 5:00 pm.