Cebu-based university opens first-of-its-kind esports hub

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) opened the Wildcats PlayLab, a first-of-its-kind esports hub in Visayas, on April 17, 2026.

The university is a member-school of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI), and hosted the inaugural season of the CESAFI Esports League (CEL), Cebu’s leading collegiate esports competition.

The Wildcats PlayLab is dedicated to esports competitions, esports broadcast production, and content creation. 

A concept proposed by students

The concept of the Wildcats PlayLab began during the inaugural season of the CEL, when the university was hosting the league. 

It was proposed by CEL student volunteers from CIT-U due to the need of a dedicated and permanent space for esports broadcast production and an arena for the players. 

CIT-U President Engr. Bernard Nicolas Villamor praised the students for coming up with the concept of Wildcats PlayLab. 

“They’re setting a standard where it’s not just about esports, it’s about hard work, discipline, and how you can balance your grades and esports,” he shared in an interview.

Prior to the hub’s launch, competitions were held in other facilities that, while functional, lacked the specialized infrastructure required for esports events. 

A hub for students and competitions

The Wildcats PlayLab features two gaming rooms, each equipped with five gaming computers. There is a different room for broadcast production and a designated area for viewers. Additionally, it has a second-floor mezzanine lounge where students can rest. 

This esports hub in Cebu is run by the university itself, and it is accessible to students across all programs, provided they maintain academic eligibility. 

However, policies to clarify the full requirements needed in order for students to use the facility are still being crafted.