MPBL — The League of Every Filipino
Learn about the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) — founded by Manny Pacquiao and led by its executives. Discover its vision, leadership, and growth.
The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) was founded in 2017 by Manny Pacquiao MPBL founder, with the vision of building a grassroots competition that connects communities nationwide. Pacquiao, already a global boxing icon, wanted to create a platform where basketball could thrive at the local level while giving provinces and cities their own identity in the sport. Guided by the motto “Ang Liga ng Bawat Pilipino”, the MPBL began as a grassroots initiative and has since evolved into a professional stage recognized across the country.
The league’s early years were marked by experimentation and expansion. Starting with Luzon‑based teams, the MPBL quickly grew to include Visayas and Mindanao, ensuring that the competition truly reflected its national ambition. This expansion was not just about basketball games; it was about building pride and unity in local communities.
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Leadership and Governance
From its beginnings, the MPBL executives and leadership have been committed to growth and integrity.
- Founder: Manny Pacquiao — established the league to provide opportunities for local talent and regional representation.
- Early Commissioner: Kenneth Duremdes — oversaw the transition from amateur beginnings to professional recognition.
- Current Commissioner: Emmerson Oreta — appointed in 2026, tasked with steering the league into its next phase.
- President: Kenneth Duremdes — now serving as league president, ensuring continuity and strategic direction.
These executives define the policies, structure, and vision of the MPBL, ensuring it remains aligned with grassroots roots while adapting to professional standards. Their leadership has been crucial in maintaining credibility, especially during periods of rapid growth and external challenges.
Structure and Expansion
The MPBL operates with a home‑and‑away format, dividing teams into North and South Divisions. Since its first season in 2018, the league has expanded to include 28 teams across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This regional format strengthens community ties and ensures representation from diverse provinces, reinforcing its identity as a Philippine regional basketball league.
Expansion has also meant logistical challenges, but the executives have embraced these as opportunities. By staging games in different provinces, the MPBL has brought professional basketball closer to fans who previously only followed the PBA or collegiate leagues. This accessibility is one of the reasons the MPBL has become a household name in less than a decade.
Professional Era Recognized by GAB
In 2021, the MPBL was granted professional status by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB). This milestone allowed collegiate players with special licenses to participate and opened the door for broader competition. The professional era marked a turning point, with executives ensuring compliance, fairness, and sustainability.
Community and Impact
Beyond the court, the MPBL launched initiatives like MPBL Kalinga, a social arm providing medical assistance to players, officials, and staff. These programs reflect the league’s commitment to community welfare, guided by its leadership.
The executives understand that basketball is more than just a sport; it is a cultural force in the Philippines. By investing in community programs, the MPBL strengthens its bond with fans and ensures that its impact extends beyond the games. This holistic approach has helped the league build loyalty and credibility nationwide.
Looking Ahead
With new leadership under President Kenneth Duremdes and Commissioner Emmerson Oreta, the MPBL enters a new chapter. Expansion, professionalization, and community engagement remain at the core of its mission. The league continues to embody its motto — The League of Every Filipino — under the guidance of its executives.
Future plans include exploring international partnerships, expanding digital coverage, and strengthening grassroots programs. By balancing innovation with tradition, the MPBL aims to remain relevant and impactful for years to come.
For more details, visit the official MPBL website: https://mpbl.com.ph