Insider Spotlight
Why it matters
The collaboration reinforces a growing industry push to curb the promotion of unlicensed or scam gaming sites, particularly among content creators whose online reach significantly shapes player behavior.
YGS Live, founded by esports veteran Julius “Banoobs” Mariano, has positioned its flagship program as a platform that rewards creators who champion safer, regulated gaming environments.
About YGS Live
YGS Live (Your Game Simulator Live) is a livestream entertainment platform built to bring together streamers, creators, and brands in a collaborative iGaming ecosystem. Its flagship programme, Battle of the Streamers, unites Filipino and international creators in a weekly competition that highlights community engagement, entertainment, and responsible iGaming.
Driving the message
“Our creators have influence. We want that influence to help shape a healthier culture for fans and players,” Mariano said in a press release on Dec. 1, 2025, underscoring the network’s commitment to discouraging endorsements of illegal iGaming operators.
Buenas PH’s involvement amplifies that stance. The operator is backed by Pacific Online Systems Corp. (POSC), whose leadership—including Belle Corp. chair Willy N. Ocier—has long been tied to regulated gaming and large-scale leisure developments connected to Pagcor’s Entertainment City.
This corporate backing strengthens the credibility of the advocacy and the platform supporting it.
The big picture
Industry observers note Pacific Online’s continued momentum in the regulated online gaming space, pointing to its involvement in HHR Philippines and the Buenas brand as signals of a maturing and ethical iGaming landscape.
The Battle of the Streamers, powered by Pragmatic Play and set to stream on the upcoming Loco Live platform, uses its P11-million prize pool and weekly creator showdowns to promote responsible practices while rewarding community-first content.
What’s next
The tournament runs every Saturday leading up to its grand finals on Jan. 18, 2026, at City of Dreams Manila, where P3 million in community giveaways will further drive audience engagement around responsible iGaming.
With Buenas PH as presenting partner, YGS Live aims to establish a benchmark for safe, creator-driven, and credible iGaming entertainment—one that steers influencers firmly away from unlicensed platforms and toward a regulated future for Filipino players. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
