ONCE labeled as perennial “chokers” by fans and critics, Aurora Gaming Philippines finally shed that tag by ruling the global stage, emerging as M7 champions after a dominant 4-0 sweep of Indonesia’s Alter Ego to claim the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang world title.
At the center of Aurora’s breakthrough was roamer Dylan “Light” Catipon, who capped his first-ever M-series appearance by winning the M7 Finals MVP award.
Now on a brief break from competition, the MPL PH Season 16 Regular Season MVP reflected on Aurora’s long-awaited redemption in an exclusive interview with Manila Standard Sports.
Despite returning to Indonesia for the first time since July, Catipon said he never felt overwhelmed by the moment.
“Marami na rin naman akong international tournaments na napuntahan and I’ve been to MSC,” he said. “Pinagkaibahan lang siguro ngayon sa M7, mas mahirap kasi hindi kami nag-champion sa MPL PH, so iba rin sana ‘yung confidence boost.”
Asked about his toughest matchups, Catipon pointed to Muhammad “Yums” Suhairi and Jaypee Dela Cruz.
“Pareho nilang kayang i-maximize ‘yung Hilda. Parang na-ne-negate ‘yung mga heroes at gameplay na kayang gawin ng mga teammates ko,” he said.
Light ultimately rose to the occasion in the Finals, anchoring Aurora’s sweep of Alter Ego.
Still, the Finals MVP admitted the achievement has yet to fully register.
“Parang sunod-sunod lahat, kaya parang hindi pa siya nag-si-sink in sa akin,” he said with a laugh.
Beyond the title, M7 was a moment of vindication for Aurora, long burdened by near-misses. “Hindi na para sa ibang tao, kundi para sa sarili na namin,” Catipon said. He also dedicated the triumph to his girlfriend, adding: “Noong nasa lowest point ako, nandiyan siya. Gusto kong suklian lahat ‘yun by winning an international title.”
With the season over, Catipon is spending time with family, but remains hungry.
“Yung pag-champion namin, isang araw lang naman ‘yun,” he said. “After that, challenger ulit kami sa upcoming MPL—and hopefully, EWC.”
