DYLAN “LIGHT” CATIPON has finally made his long-awaited homecoming with Aurora Gaming on Day 1 of MPL Philippines Season 16, returning not just to take on a new mission but also to remind everyone of his caliber.
The former RSG Philippines standout had previously played as an import for Bigetron by Vitality in MPL Indonesia, a stint that tested both his skill and character.
In an exclusive with SPIN.ph, Light opened up about the realities of competing overseas.
“Nalaman ko yung hirap maging import. Kailangan makisama since ikaw yung dayo dun eh. Mag-adjust ka ng language, yun ang isa sa pinakamahirap kasi minsan di mo ma-express yung gusto mong sabihin dahil hindi mo ma-put in to words sa Bahasa,” Light said, highlighting how language barriers became one of his biggest hurdles.
Beyond communication struggles, he also dealt with the emotional toll of being far from loved ones while under constant pressure.
“Siyempre mahirap malayo sa family and then kahit burnt out ka na or pagod ka, doon ka lang sa bootcamp. So basically parang puro trabaho,” he explained.
Now turning a new page in his career, Light’s return to the Philippines felt almost destined—thanks to a familiar face who vouched for him.
The return of Demon-Light
Cedrix “Demonkite” Caranto proved to be more than a teammate from the past; he was the one who never stopped rooting for him.
“Utang na loob ko rin sa kaniya bakit ako nakapasok kasi ako yung first option niya agad nung kinontak niya ako nung possibly na magpahinga si Renejay,” Light revealed.
Despite the tough experience, Light remains grateful, especially to Aurora Gaming for giving him an opportunity and believing in him.
Now back on home soil and wearing the Aurora jersey, Light is looking forward to the new challenge ahead. He acknowledges the expectations in replacing the spot left by Renejay “Renejay” Barcarae but remains focused on growth and proving himself once again in the ever-competitive MPL PH.
“Excited ako pero siyempre hindi naman ako magsisinungaling, may pressure talaga. Pero siyempre sanay naman ako at gusto ko lang i-improve sarili ko at patunayan sa lahat na I am capable. We can make this work,” he said.
With Light’s return, Aurora Gaming gains not only a veteran presence but also a player hungry to prove himself once more—setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in MPL PH Season 16.
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