Five Years of VALORANT: Riot Games PH Celebrates with Heartfelt Tribute to Filipino Gamers

It’s been five years since VALORANT launched, and what a journey it’s been. From a pandemic-era beta test codenamed “Project A” to becoming one of the most-watched esports titles in the world, the game has taken a life of its own. This year, Riot Games Philippines is going all-out in celebrating its fifth anniversary, and they’re putting Filipino players right at the heart of it.

Starting June and rolling through July 2025, Riot is hosting a string of online and on-ground events specially made for the local VALORANT community. This celebration isn’t just about big tournaments or flashy trailers. It’s about stories, the community memes, the late-night computer shop grinds, and the endless “Tara, VALO” invites that bonded players from all walks of life.

Since its release, VALORANT has pulled in over 35 million active players monthly, with Gen Z making up the majority of that crowd. Now with 27 Agents from 21 different countries, the game has evolved from just a tactical shooter into a massive cultural force. In 2024, its Champions Seoul event reached record-breaking viewership, solidifying VALORANT’s place as the most-watched FPS esports title.

The accolades have piled up over the years. From Best Esports Game at The Game Awards in 2022 and 2023 to Esports Game of the Year in 2024, and even a Sports Emmy nomination in 2025, VALORANT’s global rise has been relentless. Locally, it snagged Esports Game Title of the Year at the Philippine Esports Awards in 2024.

In the Philippines, the game became more than a pastime. It’s helped Filipino talents shine globally. Teams like Team Secret and NAOS have made waves in the international scene, while Pinoy players are getting picked up by foreign organizations. Just recently, former NAOS standout PatMen joined Paper Rex, a top-tier Southeast Asian team, and helped lead them to Masters Toronto 2025.

To honor that passion, Riot PH kicked off the celebration with a tribute video packed with iconic community moments, game highlights, and cultural milestones. Then comes Humans of VALORANT, a mini-documentary series highlighting everyday Pinoy players whose lives were touched by the game. It’s followed by interviews with creators like Damods, Razzie, and Amara, who grew up with the game and are now major voices in the community.

Offline, the celebration takes on a colorful life with murals painted by artists like Jappy Agoncillo. The biggest one is at the Tenement Basketball Court in Taguig, transforming it into a VALORANT-themed street art tribute. There's also a fun local twist with “Jeepney Karaokes”—classic jeepneys turned into roving karaoke booths for fans to enjoy.

At the core of it all is a simple question: “Bakit VALORANT?” For many, it’s more than just a game. It’s where friendships formed, skills sharpened, and dreams came true. And as Riot says, this campaign is a thank-you letter to every Filipino player who made VALORANT what it is today. 

If you’ve played even just one match, you’re already part of the story. 

Join the celebrations by following #TaraVALO on social media, and VALORANT’s official Facebook and Instagram channels.