ONIC Philippines’ EXP laner Jann ‘Kirk’ Solcruz Gutierrez has been named one of the finalists for the Esports Breakthrough Player of the Year in the 2025 Esports Awards.
First held in 2016, the Esports Awards is the lone awarding body that celebrates achievements in the esports industry. Nominees are named by the public and then deliberated upon by a panel of judges, who narrow down the list to a few finalists. Public voting, which accounts for 25% of the final score, is open until November 12, while panel deliberations make up the remaining 75%. Winners will be announced during the live ceremony on November 19 in Las Vegas in the United States.
Gutierrez, who made waves in the Mobile Legends Professional League Philippines Season 13, is recognized for his explosive debut and consistent performance throughout the season. As ONIC’s EXP laner, Gutierrez helped steer the team to a top-tier finish, showcasing mechanical prowess and key strategic plays. His nomination places him among a competitive field of emerging talents across various esports titles, including Valorant, Rainbow Six Siege, and League of Legends.
Gutierrez joins a growing list of Filipino esports figures who have earned recognition at the prestigious awards. In 2022, RSG Philippines’ Eman ‘EMANN’ Sangco was nominated for Mobile Player of the Year, following his MVP performance at the Mobile Legends Southeast Asia Cup, while the Philippines was further honored in 2024 when it was named Esports Ones to Watch: Emerging Region during the Esports Awards held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the country’s hosting of the M5 World Championship was also nominated as Esports Live Event of the Year.