Kelra Apologizes for Homophobic Comments After Backlash From Mobile Legends Community

UPDATE: Omega Esports and the official MPL League has issued its official statement regarding the issue.

According to MPL PH, Kelra will receive the following penalties for violating rule 12.3.3. "Sexual Harassment" and rule 12.3.4. "Discrimination and Denigration."

• Suspension for Grant Duane "Kelra" Pillas for two (2) weeks or fourteen (14) days starting from the first day of the MPL-Philippines Season 8 Regular Season

• Issuance of serious warning to Grant Duane "Kelra" Pillas and Omega Esports

• An imposed fine to Grant Duane "Kelra" Pillas

Omega Esports stated that they are actively investigating the issue and is coordinating with MPL PH. The organization assured its fans that it is taking necessary steps to ensure respect and professionalism above all among all its pro players.

Kelra under fire for homophobic statements regarding the popular VeeWise duo

Duane “Kelra” Pillas is one of the star rookies of Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) Philippines (PH) who helped Execration secure its championship title in the Mobile Legends Southeast Asia Cup (MSC) 2021. The young prodigy is currently under fire for his controversial comments in a short video that has been circulating around the Mobile Legends community.

The video originated from a TikTok post made by the user @secsipa. Kelra was reportedly heard saying unsavory sexual comments about the VeeWise duo while playing with the Indonesian RRQ squad. The TikTok video is no longer available but the clip has been uploaded on other social media platforms.

A lot of fans pointed out his mistake and went to Twitter to post their concerns regarding Kelra’s homophobic statements. One of the MPL shoutcasters, Theo “Uomi” Ignacio, stated that bullying the pro player will not help him do better.

“Bullying the kid won't help the cause. Part of educating people is giving the space to learn,” stated Uomi.

Kelra posted an apology statement on his official Facebook page on 15th Aug 2021. He admitted that what he said was out of line and he apologizes to the community especially to the VeeWise duo. He also added that he has messaged both OhMyV33nus and Wise to ask for forgiveness.

“I promise to be a better person and I will strive to be a good role model as a professional player,” Kelra stated.