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| Photo from MPL Philippines |
by Drew Malihan
MANILA – For a few seasons now, Falcons AP.Bren has been on a steamroll. They have ventured to places ranging from the deserts of Saudi Arabia to the forests of northeast Romania, constantly proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. They rarely return home without a trophy.
Now back in the Philippines, the Hive is looking to "get in the zone" once more, hoping to clinch another title in MPL Philippines Season 14.
Kapangyarihan
Just how strong is Falcons AP.Bren? We can see their strength through their lineup.
Like many championship-winning teams, they have kept their core players since early 2024, improving day by day. Angelo "Pheww" Arcangel remains one of the best midlaners and shotcallers in the world. David "Charles" Canon is still doing his signature FlapTzy plays while refining his space-creation skills. Marco "Super Marco" Requitiano remains one of the best gold laners globally, becoming more vocal in his leadership role. Rowgien "Owgwen" Unigo has mastered the balance between using setter and healer roamers, while Kyle "KyleTzy" Sayson thrives in the current meta, which favors his assassin heroes.
Additionally, Vincent "Pando" Unigo can step up whenever the team needs to shake things up, and the guidance of coaches Francis "Ducky" Glindro and Robert "Trebor" Sanchez has been invaluable. With victories in Kazan, Kuala Lumpur, and Almaty, along with two runner-up finishes in Las Piñas and Riyadh, the team hasn't needed any drastic changes. They are simply that strong.
Alab
"Burning up fire" is an apt description of how FCAP started their campaign. "‘Di na matatanggi" that FCAP hits like a brick wall, whether they are winning or losing.
Despite a shocking loss to Smart Omega in their season opener, FCAP still pushed the Barangay to its limits before winning their next five matches.
Just like fire, however, they simmered down a bit, losing twice to the Hedgehogs and suffering a surprising 0-2 defeat to a rebuilding Blacklist International.
Interestingly, FCAP had both the longest and shortest games this season— a 35-minute back-and-forth win against rivals Team Liquid PH, and a lightning-quick nine-minute and 51-second loss to FNOP.
The One
It is hard to single out the best player among FCAP's hard-hitting lineup, but if anyone stands out, it’s Mr. Finals MVP himself, FlapTzy.
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| Photo from MPL Philippines |
The EXP laner has been nothing short of phenomenal this season, soaking up most of the damage dealt by opponents. FlapTzy leads the league with 6.4k damage absorbed per minute and has taken the second-most damage share for his team, shouldering a third of all damage received.
He has also been one of the best Phoveus users in the league, boasting an 80 percent win rate across 10 matches, while being highly proficient with Hylos and Terizla as well.
Go Up
Falcons AP.Bren will enjoy the advantage of being in the upper bracket, awaiting the winner between Blacklist International and Smart Omega. Both teams have defeated FCAP at some point this season, making it interesting to see if the Hive can finally outplay them and send their opponents to the lower bracket. Alternatively, Smart Omega or Blacklist may have found the winning formula to beat FCAP again.
Regardless, if there’s any team capable of dominating or coming back from adversity, it's the Hive. Their resilience has been proven countless times on the world stage, and they are ready to show it again, in hopes of defending their crown in Malaysia.
As Falcons AP.Bren continue their journey to another "Gento" moment, it seems like the team's mentality is set on going from strength to strength, reminding everyone to never give up despite the odds. Whether they face challenges that make them feel like they’re going “Hanggang Sa Huli,” they’re certain to put everything on the line to "Go Up." After all, when it comes to the Hive, they know success isn't just a “Bazinga” moment — it's the result of endless hard work, discipline, and determination.
Follow him on X: @DMalihan_DPH
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