MPBL revokes Iloilo United Royals’ franchise

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) revoked the Iloilo United Royals’ franchise after the team abandoned its obligations and participation in the league, the committee announced on June 23, 2026.

In an official statement posted on its Facebook page, the MPBL also said Iloilo violated its franchise agreement and league rules and regulations.

It came after the United Royals failed to play in two regular-season games, recording two forfeitures against the Marikina Shoemasters and the Negros Hacienderos.

In addition, the MPBL’s third-party integrity partner, Sportradar, detected strange betting patterns in some of Iloilo’s games, which are subject to investigation.

“Due to the reports of our third-party integrity partner Sportradar and the recommendation of our Technical Committee, the MPBL, in close coordination with the Games and Amusements Board, may open an investigation into Iloilo’s owners, managers, coaches, staff, and players,” the MPBL wrote.

Multiple sources also confirmed that Iloilo still had unpaid balances to its players, which was why a mass exodus took place in the middle of the season.

Amid the MPBL’s trade deadline, Vic Manuel, Kyt Jimenez, Josh Devara, Steven Cudal, EJ Perez, Alexis Hitman, and Art Patrick Aquino had already left the United Royals and were no-shows during the team’s past games.

“Its officers have been permanently banned from the MPBL and are subject to appropriate sanctions and penalties,” the MPBL continued.

On April 6, 2026, the Ilonggos rejoiced after the United Royals made their highly anticipated return to the MPBL after taking a temporary leave of absence last year.

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

However, things didn’t go according to plan, as the United Royals compiled a disappointing 2-11 win-loss record before their franchise was officially revoked.

“The MPBL remains committed to protecting the integrity of the league, the interests of its stakeholders, partners, and sponsors, and the welfare of its teams, players, and fans,” the MPBL said.