MANILA, Philippines, September 23, 2024 – Kalaro, the Philippines’ first fully integrated esports super app, was launched globally in Manila by Singapore-based Kalaro Holdings Pte. Ltd. Designed to enhance gamer engagement and provide new monetization opportunities, the app is set to transform the esports landscape. According to Kalaro Founder and CEO Jun D. Lasco, the platform was created to serve as both a hub for gaming mastery and a tool for esports monetization.
“This will be a game-changer in the esports industry,” said Lasco. “Kalaro offers a suite of features including an in-app social media module, e-wallet, currency, brand storefront, and tournament management system to keep gamers continuously engaged while allowing them to earn.”
Lasco highlighted the growing difficulty in monetizing gaming content on platforms like YouTube and Facebook due to shifting algorithms and increased competition. Kalaro addresses this challenge by enabling gamers to participate in live and recorded tournaments, access training videos, and engage in social activities, all within the app’s ecosystem.
The app also includes a social network hub, designed to help gamers easily connect with new friends, teammates, and coaches. “While LinkedIn is for professionals and Facebook is for everyone, Kalaro is the social platform for gamers,” said Lasco, who is known in the gaming community by his alias “White Shadow.”
Beyond individual users, Kalaro provides a unique opportunity for brands to engage with the Philippines’ 43 million gamers, offering them an interactive platform to promote products and stay ahead of esports trends. Lasco emphasized the growing importance of esports, especially after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognized it as a legitimate sport to be included in future Olympic events.
Kalaro’s tournament management module is a key feature, enabling tournament organizers to streamline operations across the Philippines’ 82 provinces. The platform is also designed to help gamers improve their skills and gain visibility, increasing their chances of being discovered by professional teams or leagues.
In addition to its esports features, Kalaro is also set to offer gaming merchandise for purchase through its brand storefront. Users will be able to buy products using Kalaro’s in-app currency, Kalaro Gems, providing a frictionless shopping experience.
To ensure security, Kalaro partnered with Union Bank of the Philippines to manage e-wallet transactions, ensuring real-time, safe, and fraud-free transactions. Users can top up their wallets via popular payment methods such as GCash, GrabPay, Alipay, and 7-11 kiosks.
Since its open beta testing phase in 2021, Kalaro has attracted more than 10,000 testers, with the majority hailing from the Philippines. The app’s recent developments include a strategic partnership with the Global Esports Federation (GEF) following the Olympics Esports Week in Singapore, and securing its first U.S. investor in late 2023.
The launch of Kalaro version 2.1 marks the culmination of over four years of development, said Lasco. The app’s AI-powered features, such as gamer-matching, will continue to evolve, with plans to enhance discovery and connection within the platform.
Kalaro’s immediate focus is on expanding its user base and building a vibrant community of gamers who can showcase their profiles and achievements. Lasco envisions Kalaro becoming the go-to platform for esports in the Philippines, as it continues to grow both locally and internationally.