Iloilo United Royals make highly anticipated MPBL comeback

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The long wait is over.

After taking a temporary leave of absence last year, the Iloilo United Royals are returning to the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), management confirmed on April 6, 2026.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Guardian, Iloilo’s owners, the father-and-son tandem of Mr. JJ and Jay Javelosa, announced that this year’s United Royals roster and coaching staff were already submitted to the tournament committee and are ready to make waves once the MPBL season kicks off on April 10, 2026.

From the Mark Nonoy – CJ Cansino era two years ago, Iloilo will be led by former two-time PBA champion Vic Manuel and explosive guard Kyt Jimenez.

Aside from the 1–2 punch, former PBA veterans who also joined the team are James Sena, Jory Napoles, and Reil Cervantes.

Donning the Iloilo jersey alongside the five mentioned players are Levi Hernandez, Paul Sanga, EJ Perez, Dan Sara, Jermy Monton, Steven Cudal, Kobe Pableo, Art Aquino, Jasper Longalong, Richard Velchez, Alexis Himan, Joshua Arevalo, Mon Rogalo, and Ryan Reyes.

Meanwhile, the three homegrown Ilonggo players who were selected are Leo Guion, Joshua Devera, and Kenneth Sumalacay.

Calling the shots for the United Royals is Sherwin Cantos, assisted by Thirdy Canaya, Phelps Martinez, and Albert Olaya.

Jay Javelosa, the team’s manager, also clarified that Iloilo will still carry United Royals as its official moniker, and Jerm Waste Transport is just its major sponsor for the upcoming 2026 MPBL regular season.

“We felt this was a good time to return to the MPBL,” Javelosa told the Daily Guardian.

“We know how much it means to the Ilonggo fans to see our Iloilo team compete. Senator Manny (Pacquiao) also requested that we return since Iloilo has been competitive through the years. We mentioned that if we return, we want to return with a competitive team, especially since we weren’t able to make the playoffs last time.”