ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17: The Yellow Hedgehogs’ Stand

John Alec Narciso
February 24, 2026

As ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 is set to take the stage on March 20, 2026, all eyes are on the Yellow Hedgehogs, who are sticking with their tried-and-true core. While teams like Team Falcons and AP.Bren have opted for dramatic roster changes, ONIC PH is focused on the power of synergy and continuity. This strategy of stability will see them entering Season 17 with a battle-hardened team, hoping to prove that experience and cohesion can still stand strong against the new powerhouse teams forming around them. For a closer look at the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17, Juan Sports brings you an in-depth breakdown.

Defying Transfer Rumors: The Core Stays Intact

The 2026 off-season was filled with transfer rumors for ONIC PH. At one point, rumors swirled that star jungler K1NGKONG and midlane powerhouse Super Frince were being courted by international organizations, specifically Natus Vincere (NAVI). However, ONIC PH was quick to put these rumors to rest by confirming their roster for Season 17. By retaining their core, they avoid the common adjustment period that often plagues teams with new superstars. This stability could be the key to their success in MPL PH Season 17.

The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17: A Blend of Experience and Skill

Let’s break down the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 and examine how each player contributes to the team’s strength:

1. The Jungle King: King Cyric “K1NGKONG” Perez

K1NGKONG continues to be the engine that drives ONIC PH. Known for his aggressive “Assassin Jungle” playstyle, K1NGKONG has also adapted to the high-durability tank junglers required by the new meta. His understanding of objective control and his ability to make game-changing plays in the jungle make him one of the top junglers in the region. His synergy with Super Frince will be critical to the success of the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17.

2. The Midlane Architect: Frince Miguel “Super Frince” Ramirez

As the strategic brain of ONIC PH, Super Frince continues to be a vital player in the team’s success. His hero pool spans from utility mages like Faramis to high-burst heroes like Valentina, offering flexibility to the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17. His ability to read the map and make game-changing plays with K1NGKONG has been instrumental in their previous successes.

3. The EXP Lane Wall: Jann Kirk “Kirk” Gutierrez

Kirk is the foundation of the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 in the EXP lane. Known for his mastery of heroes like Terizla and Arlott, Kirk will be key in adapting to the “Lakas ng Pinas” meta, which favors tanky frontliners. His ability to absorb damage and create space in teamfights will be crucial to ONIC PH’s overall success.

4. The Gold Lane Marksman: Savero

As ONIC PH’s primary carry, Savero is tasked with securing the late-game win conditions. The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 will heavily depend on Savero’s ability to position well and deliver damage when it matters most. In a meta where gold lanes are under constant pressure from aggressive roamers, Savero’s mechanical skills and decision-making will be tested.

5. The Roaming Engine: Borris James “Brusko” Parro

Brusko is the roaming backbone of ONIC PH. Known for his impact on heroes like Chou and Minotaur, Brusko‘s vision control and engagement timing allow K1NGKONG to find key opportunities to secure objectives and make plays. As the roaming engine of the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17, Brusko will need to continue his aggressive playstyle to keep the enemy team on the back foot.

6. The Strategic Sub: Nowee “Ryota” Macasa

Ryota is the backup EXP laner who provides a unique playstyle to the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17. While Kirk excels at tanking and utility, Ryota has a more carry-oriented approach, which gives ONIC PH more options when drafting. Having a strategic sub like Ryota adds another layer of depth to the roster.

The “Lakas ng Pinas” Meta: Can ONIC PH Adapt?

Season 17 will be a test for ONIC PH as they adjust to a meta favoring high-durability frontline fighters and utility-based midlaners. The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 will need to adapt and overcome these challenges.

The Double-Tank Strategy

The current meta has shifted towards high-durability tanks occupying both the jungle and EXP lanes. This leaves the mid and gold lanes responsible for most of the damage output. The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 will need to rely on Super Frince to provide poke damage and help soften up enemy tanks. K1NGKONG will also need to continue excelling in his role as the jungler, providing the necessary space for the team to execute their strategy.

Objective Control

ONIC PH’s biggest challenge in Season 16 was closing out games, especially against disciplined teams. To avoid repeating these mistakes, the ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 has focused on improving their communication and objective control. If ONIC PH can secure objectives like the Lord with better precision and timing, they’ll be a force to be reckoned with in Season 17.

Key Rivalries to Watch

ONIC PH vs. Team Falcons

The clash between ONIC PH and Team Falcons will be one of the most highly anticipated matches of the season. With the addition of Hadji to Team Falcons, the jungle battle between K1NGKONG and Hadji will be an exciting spectacle. The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 is counting on K1NGKONG to outmaneuver the newly revamped Falcons team.

ONIC PH vs. AP.Bren

The return of Kielvj to AP.Bren means that the EXP lane battle between Kirk and Kielvj will be a key point of contention. The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 will need Kirk to prove his dominance in this high-profile matchup.

The Road to MSC 2026 and M7

The stakes for Season 17 are higher than ever, with the top teams earning a spot in the MSC 2026. After missing out on M6 World Championship qualification, ONIC PH is hungry for redemption. Their performance in Season 17 will not only determine their standing in the league but will also set the stage for their potential run in MSC 2026 and beyond.

The Juan Sports Final Verdict

ONIC PH is the “dark horse” of MPL PH Season 17. While other teams are making flashy roster changes, ONIC PH is banking on the stability and synergy of their core roster. The ONIC PH Roster for MPL PH S17 has the tools to succeed, but their late-game discipline will ultimately determine their fate. If they can keep their composure and execute their strategies efficiently, ONIC PH will be a serious contender for the title.

ONIC PH Season 17 Quick Facts: