Esports community mourns passing of player Chad and Coach Navi

MPL Philippines confirmed the passing of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang esports personalities Charles Dave "Chad" Dela Pena and Ivan Emmanuel "Coach Navi" Gacho.

Chad was formerly Nexplay EVOS boot camp manager. He was also a well-known figure in esports, described as an "older brother" to fellow players. He passed away on April 23.

Coach Navi was RSG Ignite's coach. He was also one of the first players to be part of MPL Philippines, the local esports league from the largest and most prestigious mobile games competition in Southeast Asia. He died on April 24.

"Most importantly, both led remarkable lives and inspired players to reach their dreams," MPL Philippines posted.

"Please join us in offering our community’s thoughts and deepest sympathies to Chad and Navi's families and friends that they left behind. May you rest in peace, Chad and Navi."

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The esports community has since begun paying tribute to this pair of "mobile legends."

Those who offered their condolences on social media include BREN Esports professionals (Flap, SuperMarco, Owgwen), multihyphenate Eric "Eruption" Tai, and esports broadcaster Leo Gaming, among others.

TNC Pro Team - ML shared MPL Philippines' post with dove and prayer emojis.

RSG Philippines also wrote in its tribute: "You have brought a light that shone brightly in our lives and hearts. We will be forever grateful for all the time spent together and thank you for the wonderful memories you left with us."

Rest in peace, Chad and Navi.