Esports giant Natus Vincere, or more commonly known as NAVI, has thrown its hat into the growing Mobile Legends professional scene.

Known for winning the first ever The International, NAVI acquired the Omega Empress roster in a bold, surprising move that surprised the community.

"The Philippines has a rich history of esports and MOBA titles. NAVI feels this is the perfect opportunity to enter the Philippine esports ecosystem and become a part of a growing esports and MLBB community," NAVI General Manager Jonathan Yuwono said in a statement.

"Being a part of the Philippines MLBB ecosystem via Smart Omega Empress is a stepping stone to doing something bigger in this region."

Omega Empress is touted as the reigning queen of Mobile Legends esports.

They won the Women's Invitational at Esports World Cup in Riyadh last year and is vying to win the title again by competing in the upcoming PH qualifier scheduled to run from May 23 to 25.

"Omega Empress has a history of winning internationally and at the highest levels. That is what NAVI is all about — we are born to win and are always exploring opportunities to acquire the best teams in their respective fields and game titles," Yuwono said.

"We expect this team to continue pushing the boundaries of what women can achieve, not only in MLBB competitions, but also in the community of young female gamers that look up to them."