Kirk: “Parang naglalaro lang kami sa MPL-PH”

There’s something intimidating about Fnatic ONIC Philippines’ laid-back confidence before every game. While other teams might show signs of pre-match nerves, this squad pulls faces and goofs around, treating the world stage like it’s just another playground to sweep. As the only Filipino team left in the M6 World Championship, Fnatic ONIC Philippines hopes to sweep the tournament as they face their final opponent on December 15 at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

But their relaxed demeanor is as baffling as it is inspiring, leaving fans and commentators alike wondering: How do they stay so unshaken?

During a recent interview, Kirk, one of the team’s standout players, shed light on this enigma.

“Does the pressure get to you?” asked Mirko, the seasoned host. “Because this is your first international competition. Does it get to you, the pressure, playing on the world stage for the first time?”

Kirk’s answer was immediate and resolute: “No.”

The simplicity of his response only fueled the intrigue. Mirko probed further, curious about what set the team apart. “I know that other players, when it’s their first time to compete in internationals, they always get jitters. What’s the secret of Filipinos? For some reason, it doesn’t matter to you guys; it’s your first time in internationals, but you have no problem.”

Kirk shrugged it off with his trademark cool. “Parang naglalaro lang kami sa MPL-PH.” (It’s like we’re playing in MPL Philippines.)

The comparison left co-host Rose equally fascinated. “Bakit ganoon? Bakit parang naglalaro lang kayo sa MPL-PH, parang hindi ninyo iniisip na nasa international na kayo para hindi kayo ma-pressure, ganoon?” (Why? Why do you feel like you’re playing in MPL-PH instead of the world championship? Is it because you don’t want to feel pressure?)

Kirk’s reply was as matter-of-fact as ever. “Kasi parang, mas malakas yung nasa Philippines katulad ng BREN saka Team Liquid Philippines.” (It’s like the teams in the Philippines, like BREN and Team Liquid Philippines, are stronger.)

For Kirk and his teammates, the international stage doesn’t feel like a leap—it feels like an extension of the hyper-competitive environment they face back home. After all, the Philippines was not named MLBB’s strongest region for nothing.

Their laid-back confidence reminds us that pressure is only as powerful as you allow it to be. And for Fnatic ONIC Philippines, it might as well not exist at all.