In the wake of Duane “Kelra” Pillas’ stunning move to their Indonesian sister team, ONIC PH made history in response, tapping Clayton “Savero” Kuswanto as the league’s first-ever import ahead of MPL Philippines Season 17.

At first glance, the move appeared to be an internal swap within the ONIC system, with the Indonesian gold laner making the shift to the Philippine squad.

Savero arrives with elite credentials, having helped power ONIC ID to back-to-back MPL Indonesia titles in Seasons 15 and 16 after multiple stints with the organization’s developmental squad — a steady rise that culminated in a championship breakthrough on the main stage.

Photo: ONIC ID/FB

For his part, the former MDL ID Most Improved Player said he is eager to prove himself in what he considers the best ML:BB nation, viewing his move to the Philippines as both a challenge and an opportunity to measure up against the region’s highest standard.

“Excited because I just want to prove myself here. I think it’s interesting for me because I’m replacing him and it will be interesting,” said Savero.

“Excited because I play in the strongest region, I guess,” he added.

He will be joining a battle-tested core composed of Frince “Super Frince” Ramirez, Borris “Brusko” Parro, King “K1NGKONG” Perez, Jann “Kirk” Gutierrez, and Nowee “Ryota” Macasa.

Assistant coach Jeniel “Haze” Bata-anon will be taking over the head coaching duties following the departure of Anthony “Ynot” Senedrin.