The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has come under scrutiny following allegations of possible game manipulation involving the Bacolod Maskarra in their matchup against the Bulacan Kuyas on July 28.
Bulacan secured a dominant 100-64 victory over Bacolod, but the result raised questions among fans, observers, and online commentators because of the circumstances surrounding the game’s closing minutes. The Kuyas pulled away late after the Maskarra failed to score a single point during the final 7:48 of the contest, allowing Bulacan to complete a 36-point rout.
The unusual sequence prompted calls for a closer review, eventually catching the attention of the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), which confirmed that it had launched a fact-finding investigation into the match.
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In an official statement, the GAB said it would follow due process by requiring individuals who may have committed actions considered “conduct unbecoming of a professional basketball player” to submit their explanations.
“The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) has initiated its fact-finding investigation regarding the MPBL basketball game between Bulacan Kuyas and Bacolod Maskarra on 28 July 2026,” the statement read.
The regulatory body added that all concerned parties would be given the opportunity to present their side before any final decision is made.
“Following standard regulatory procedure, the GAB will require those who appeared to have committed acts that can be considered as conduct unbecoming of a professional basketball player to submit their respective comments. This ensures that all relevant parties are afforded due process and given a fair opportunity to be heard.”
The GAB also emphasized that it would refrain from making further comments regarding the details of the investigation until the proceedings are concluded.
“To preserve the integrity of the proceedings, the GAB shall refrain from commenting on the merits of the case pending its final resolution,” the statement added.
PROBE SOUGHT. Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya asks officials of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) led by chief executive officer Joe Ramos to investigate the alleged manipulation of the July 28, 2026 match between the teams Bulacan Kuyas and Bacolod MassKara held… pic.twitter.com/BtPNVP3LiM
— Philippine News Agency (@pnagovph) July 30, 2026
Meanwhile, the MPBL has taken immediate administrative action, canceling Bacolod Maskarra’s participation for the remainder of the season and imposing permanent bans on players and coaches involved in the alleged incident.
MPBL commissioner Emmer Orteta confirmed the league’s decision, with the organization releasing a statement reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of the competition.
“The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) reiterates its unyielding commitment to preserve the integrity, fairness, and credibility of the sport. In light of recent allegations concerning potential game-manipulation, the league office has officially issued red cards to the involved players and coaches of Bacolod Maskarra,” the statement read.
“All individuals served with red cards are permanently banned from the league. The league is also announcing that the franchise’s participation for the remainder of the season has been cancelled.”
The league clarified that the sanctions are preventive and administrative measures while the investigation continues alongside relevant government agencies. The MPBL also noted that Bacolod Maskarra had previously received warnings over earlier incidents that were flagged by the league office.
According to the MPBL, some members of the team had already been issued yellow cards earlier in the season before the latest developments.
The league’s red card system, which was introduced by MPBL founder and chairman Manny Pacquiao, was designed as a mechanism to address possible game manipulation and maintain accountability among teams and personnel.
“The MPBL stands firm against any attempt to tarnish the sanctity of Philippine basketball,” the league said.
The organization further vowed to continue taking firm action against any behavior that threatens the credibility of the league and the trust of its supporters.
“Swift and decisive action will continue to be taken against any conduct that threatens the trust of our fans, team owners, and the public,” the MPBL stated.
As the GAB investigation progresses, the controversy has placed renewed focus on the importance of maintaining transparency and integrity in Philippine basketball. Both the regulatory body and the league have stressed that protecting the credibility of the sport remains their top priority.
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