MPBL expels Bacolod MassKara amid game manipulation investigation

The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has expelled the Bacolod MassKara from the remainder of the 2026 season and imposed lifetime bans on several of the team's players and coaches after issuing Red Cards as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged game manipulation.

The announcement was made on Thursday following weeks of heightened scrutiny surrounding Bacolod's performances. The MassKara finished with the league's worst record at 3-19 and lost by an average margin of more than 25 points per game during the season.

Questions intensified after Bacolod suffered a 100-64 defeat to the Bulacan Kuyas, during which the team went scoreless for an extended stretch in the fourth quarter before losing by 36 points. Earlier in the campaign, the MassKara also figured in the most lopsided game in league history, absorbing a record 129-45 loss to the Abra Solid North Weavers.

In a statement, the MPBL said the Red Cards permanently disqualify the players and coaches involved from participating in the league while also terminating Bacolod's participation for the remainder of the season.

The league emphasized that the sanctions are administrative and preventive measures as its 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 also revealed that Bacolod had previously been placed under the Office of the Commissioner's watchlist following earlier incidents this season, with several members of the organization already having received Yellow Cards before the latest disciplinary action.

According to the league, the Red Card system was introduced by founder and chairman Manny Pacquiao as part of the MPBL's campaign against game manipulation and is supported by the Games and Amusements Board.

"The MPBL stands firm against any attempt to tarnish the sanctity of Philippine basketball," the league said, adding that it would continue taking swift and decisive action against anyone found compromising the integrity of its games.

The league also acknowledged the impact of the controversy and reiterated its commitment to restoring public confidence.

"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."