In a surprising career shift, 27-year-old Chaz Cokaliong is making waves in the electronic sports industry, stepping away from his family's established shipping business to pursue his passion for competitive gaming.
From Shipping Magnate to Esports Advocate
Chaz Cokaliong, the youngest son of renowned businessman Chester Cokaliong, is charting an entirely different course from his family's shipping legacy. Together with his girlfriend Victoria Ong, the young entrepreneur has become a prominent voice in Philippines' burgeoning esports scene.
The couple is specifically addressing the critical need for better infrastructure and sustainable career pathways for local gaming talent. Esports continues to face recognition challenges, particularly within educational institutions, where concerns about toxicity, addiction, and uncertain career prospects persist.
Building a Professional Gaming Ecosystem
Chaz and Victoria are determined to change the narrative around competitive gaming by creating dedicated spaces that foster both competitive play and professional development. Their mission is clear: to demonstrate that esports can be a viable and high-earning profession for Filipino youth.
"It's actually a real profession now," Victoria emphasized. "They earn like P100,000 plus a month just to play for a specific team. That's what we're trying to cultivate also."
The couple points to international success stories from Asian neighbors like Korea, Hong Kong, and Japan, where esports teams regularly compete on the global stage. This regional inspiration drives their push to modernize Philippines' gaming landscape and bring Cebuano talent to international recognition.
Drippy Lab: More Than Just an Internet Cafe
To transform their vision into reality, the pair has expanded Drippy Lab, their premium internet gaming facility strategically located in Barangay Lahug, Cebu City. The venue represents a significant upgrade from traditional internet shops, offering an elevated gaming experience designed to nurture professional talent.
Drippy Lab aims to serve as a community hub and potential training ground where local gamers can refine their skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and potentially get scouted for professional opportunities. This approach addresses the crucial gap between casual gaming and professional esports careers in the Philippines.
The initiative comes at a pivotal time for esports in the country, as competitive gaming continues to gain mainstream acceptance while still facing structural challenges. Through Drippy Lab, Chaz and Victoria are laying the foundation for a sustainable esports ecosystem that could potentially transform how Filipinos perceive and pursue careers in gaming.
