Blacklist International experience laner Edward Jay “Edward” Dapadap may be young, but he is already making all the right moves to secure his life after his Esports career.
After taking a break in his studies to become a competitive Mobile Legends player, the 17-year-old Edward made a mark by helping Blacklist win back-to-back Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) Philippines title and M3 Mobile Legends World Championship crown.
Touted as one of the best experience laners in the professional scene today, Edward keyed Blacklist’s success, especially in M3, where they won a grand prize of $300,000 — or roughly P16.6 million.
Although his career is still far from over, Edward is keeping his eyes on the ultimate prize by investing a huge chunk of his earnings in building a house in his native Bataan.
“Before M3, I told them (family) about the prize money should we become a champion,” Edward told ONE Esports.
“And then I asked where to spend or invest the money in case we won. My grandmother told me to buy a house so whenever I come home I will see what I have worked hard for.”
“They were shocked with (the house that) I am building because it is really huge. They asked if we hit the lottery. My grandmother was very happy and hugged me for a long time when I got home. I do not know. I cannot explain what she felt then, she was so happy.”
So far, Edward has an estimated career winnings of around P5 million from his stint as a former EVOS player and now as a Blacklist International mainstay.
Aside from his winnings, he also gets paid a salary by the organization and makes money from live streaming.
Edward said a huge part of his success comes from having the right attitude.
“You need to get along with everyone you meet. Be it the team, management, or bosses. If you cannot get along you would not get far,” he said.
“Your skill in-game amounts to nothing if you have a bad attitude. Your skills mean nothing with a bad attitude.”
And when he is done playing, Edward hopes that he has invested his earnings in a business by then so he could continue to provide for his family and pursue his studies.
“Hopefully, I get into business so when I retire I still have an income to study and travel. Maybe I will be CEO.”