The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has announced a major leadership reshuffle as it gears up for its eighth season, signaling a renewed push to strengthen league operations and elevate standards both on and off the court
Veteran basketball executive Kenneth Duremdes has been appointed as the new MPBL President after serving as league commissioner for the past seven seasons. Under his tenure as commissioner, the MPBL experienced significant growth, expanding its reach nationwide while cementing its reputation as a key platform for Filipino basketball talent.
Taking over Duremdes’ previous role, Emmerson Oreta has been named MPBL Commissioner. Oreta has been with the league since its inception in 2018, most recently serving as Head of Operations. His deep familiarity with league logistics, team coordination, and game operations positions him well to oversee the MPBL’s competitive and regulatory framework moving forward.
Meanwhile, Zaldy Realubit has been appointed as the new MPBL Head of Operations, completing the league’s leadership transition. Realubit is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of league activities as the MPBL continues to grow in scale and visibility.
The appointments were confirmed last Friday through a memorandum signed by MPBL Founder and Chairman Manny Pacquiao.
“I am deeply honored by the trust given to me by our founder Manny Pacquiao,” Duremdes said in a statement. “Having served as commissioner, I’ve seen firsthand the passion of our teams, players, and communities. As president, my focus is to further strengthen the league, uphold integrity, and continue providing opportunities for Filipino talent across the country.”
Oreta also expressed gratitude for his new role, emphasizing his commitment to the league’s core values. “I am grateful for the trust given to me by our MPBL Founder and Chairman Manny Pacquiao, and I am honored to serve the league in this capacity,” he said. “I am also committed to upholding the integrity of the league while working closely with our teams and stakeholders.”
A respected figure in Philippine basketball, Duremdes brings an in-depth understanding of league operations and development. His leadership as commissioner helped guide the MPBL through periods of rapid expansion, increased competitiveness, and heightened national attention.
With the new leadership structure in place, the MPBL aims to build on its momentum, elevate professional standards, and reinforce its role as a vital pathway for basketball development nationwide. As Season 8 approaches, league officials are optimistic that the new appointments will usher in continued growth and stability for one of the country’s premier grassroots basketball leagues.