Juschie sees PH closing gap with China, Malaysia in Honor of Kings

MANILA — Honor of Kings jungler Justine “Juschie” Tan believes the Philippines can close the gap against regional powerhouses China and Malaysia, with the national team’s Asian Games bronze medal providing a foundation for the local scene’s continued growth.

Tan, who plays for TNT Tropang Giga, said the podium finish could encourage more Filipino players to pursue the mobile multiplayer online battle arena title and strengthen the country’s presence in the international competitive scene.

“Sana mahikayat ‘yung mga ibang players ta’s mas ganahan pa,” Tan said in an interview. “Kasi nagawa namin eh, so possible din na kaya nila.”

The Philippines secured bronze in the 20th Asian Games campaign, with Tan describing the achievement as particularly meaningful because of the team’s transition into a relatively new competitive environment.

Unlike their previous stint in another mobile MOBA title, where he said their dominance made success more expected, Tan acknowledged that establishing themselves in Honor of Kings was more challenging because of the lack of established references for improvement.

“Mas mahirap siguro no’ng dito sa HOK kasi medyo bago pa no’ng time na ‘yun eh,” Tan said. “Ang hirap maghanap ng [paraan] kung sa’n ka matututo.” 

Tan believes increased exposure to international tournaments will help Filipino teams develop their understanding of the game and eventually challenge the region’s strongest contenders.

While he considers the Philippines capable of competing for gold in the coming years, he acknowledged that China remains a difficult opponent, with the country still needing more practice to match its level.

Tan also identified composure as an important lesson from the Asian Games campaign, particularly in the Philippines’ encounter with Malaysia.

He recalled that the Filipinos had managed to keep pace with Malaysia and gained an advantage, only to lose focus amid the excitement.

“Nadala ng emosyon tapos ayun, nawala sa focus,” Tan lamented.

He added that maintaining composure and prioritizing rotations over constantly looking for eliminations would be crucial in future international competitions.

Beyond international results, Tan believes the Philippines has enough mechanically skilled players to compete with established regions, although developing their macro play remains an important step.

He cited the performances of Filipino players competing internationally as signs of the country’s potential, adding that a stronger understanding of the game’s broader strategic elements could help them become more competitive.

Tan also hopes to pass on the lessons he gained from the Asian Games to his current teammates, noting that only three members of the national team campaign remain together in the same competitive circle. 

With his sights set on future international tournaments, including the Honor of Kings International Championship, Tan hopes to translate the experience into stronger results for his team.

Ultimately, he wants to see Honor of Kings continue to expand in the Philippines, believing the game has the potential to attract a larger following. 

“Sana mas mag-grow pa [yung HOK]… Not bad naman din ‘yung naging position namin in third place,” Tan said.