Tragic news has emerged regarding Duane "Kelra" Pillas, one of ONIC's import players from the Philippines. On Saturday, May 16, 2026, it was reported that Kelra's father had passed away. This news has undoubtedly left many in shock, particularly as Kelra was experiencing a high point in his career within the MPL Indonesia. The announcement of his father's death attracted considerable attention, with talents, players, teams, coaches, and fans from MPL Indonesia extending their condolences to the family. The loss of his father represents a profound sorrow for him.

Despite their grief, ONIC Kelra still chose to play that day. Kelra played for his team against Alter Ego, which was scheduled for Saturday night. ONIC ultimately won 2-1 over Alter Ego, and ONIC Kelra immediately caught a flight back to the Philippines after the match. As a member of the coaching staff, Calvin "CW" Winata explained to the media why ONIC Kelra chose to play alongside ONIC against Alter Ego.

Coach CW Reveals Why ONIC Kelra Continued to Play Despite Losing His Father

Despite being in mourning, ONIC Kelra demonstrated professionalism by choosing to compete alongside ONIC against Alter Ego on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The entire crew on duty at the MPL Arena paid tribute to Kelra's late father before the match began. Even the Indonesian MPL team, ONIC Esports, also expressed their condolences via social media. Players, coaches, teams, and KOLs from all walks of life expressed their condolences for the passing of ONIC Kelra's father.

ONIC won the match 2-1. However, unusually, Kelra opted not to participate in interviews this time, reportedly rushing to the airport to return to the Philippines. Head Coach CW explained to the media that, given Kelra's tragic news, the team could have given Kelra the opportunity to sit out the match. However, CW stated that Kelra chose to play and win out of respect for his father.

"This is also my first experience. It's truly something I never expected, meaning it would happen today. But what I want to discuss here is Kelra's mentality. Even though we, the coaching staff, the team, and our management, didn't force him to play at all. We could have given a player like Ssamuel to play, on the day his father lost, Kelra still paid tribute by going all-in for the win," CW told the media.

"So, in my opinion, he's one of the players with the strongest mentality. I also have more respect for him as a player," he concluded. The ONIC Instagram account also showed the solidarity of the ONIC players, who truly dedicated the match against Alter Ego to honoring Kelra's father. This was also conveyed by ONIC Esports VP, Coach Yeb, backstage.

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