The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has formally clarified its position regarding team participation and the status of Leaves of Absence (LOA), emphasizing that such allowances are no longer permitted under current league rules.
According to the statement released by the league, the MPBL previously allowed franchises to take a Leave of Absence during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. This temporary measure was intended to help franchise owners recover from the severe financial and operational challenges brought about by the global crisis.
However, the league stressed that this policy was strictly time-bound. Beginning with the 2023 MPBL season, the Leave of Absence provision officially lapsed and was subsequently rescinded. The league leadership noted that this change was clearly communicated to all team owners.
The statement further underscored that, moving forward, there are no circumstances under which a Leave of Absence will be granted. The policy applies uniformly to all franchises, with no exceptions.
To reinforce compliance, the MPBL warned that failure to participate in the league’s regular season will carry serious consequences. These penalties may include, but are not limited to, the revocation of a team’s franchise.
The announcement was issued by the league’s founder and chairman, signaling a firm stance on accountability and commitment as the MPBL continues to strengthen its operations and competitive structure