MPBL takes unprecedented action, expels Bacolod MassKara

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The MPBL has taken its strongest stand yet against alleged game manipulation, expelling the Bacolod MassKara from the remainder of the 2026 season and permanently banning several of the team's players and coaches through its Red Card system.

The landmark decision, announced Thursday, follows weeks of mounting concerns over Bacolod's performances in what became a disastrous campaign. The MassKara finished at the bottom of the standings with a 3-19 record, losing by an average of more than 25 points per contest.

The scrutiny surrounding the franchise intensified after its 100-64 defeat to Bulacan, a game in which Bacolod failed to score for a lengthy stretch of the fourth quarter before eventually losing by 36 points. Earlier this season, the team also suffered the worst defeat in MPBL history, falling 129-45 to defending champion Abra Solid North.

In an official statement, the league announced that Red Cards had been issued to the players and coaches involved, resulting in lifetime disqualification from the MPBL while ending Bacolod's participation for the rest of the season.

League officials stressed that the penalties are administrative and preventive measures while the investigation continues in coordination with the appropriate government agencies.

"Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League reiterates its unyielding commitment to preserving the integrity, fairness, and credibility of the sport."

The MPBL disclosed that Bacolod had already been under close monitoring by the Office of the Commissioner following previous incidents during the season, with several members of the organization having earlier received Yellow Cards before the latest sanctions were imposed.

According to the league, the Red Card system was introduced by founder and chairman Manny Pacquiao with the support of the Games and Amusements Board as part of an intensified campaign to combat game manipulation.

"The MPBL stands firm against any attempt to tarnish the sanctity of Philippine basketball," the league declared, vowing to continue acting decisively against individuals who compromise the integrity of the competition.

The league also acknowledged the damage caused by the controversy, promising supporters that protecting the credibility of Philippine basketball remains its highest priority.

"We vow to the public, our fans, and the entire basketball community that we will remain relentless and uncompromising in eradicating game-manipulation from Philippine basketball. The integrity of the game will always come first."