Latest push for women’s basketball in the Philippines aims to establish a pro league via the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League model.
Philippine women’s basketball is set to receive a shot in the arm as Senator Manny Pacquiao’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League is slated to launch its women’s basketball counterpart, the WMPBL next year.
Led by champion UAAP coach Haydee Ong of the UST Growling Tigresses as its commissioner, an invitational tournament will prelude the WMPBL’s first season as a professional league which will happen mid next year.
During the league’s official press conference last Sunday, Ong spoke about the impact of having the WMPBL to cater to women’s basketball players in the country.
“This is a moment I’ve dreamt of for a long time and it’s so special to see it come to life. For those of you who don’t know me… I’ve been in the basketball world for over 30 years now and during that time, I’ve seen how much talent, dedication and heart a woman can have for the game. I’ve seen athletes who are passionate, strong, and relentless, yet far for too long they haven’t had the support and opportunities they truly deserve,” said Ong.
“That’s why the WMPBL is here. This league isn’t just about basketball, it’s about women empowerment.”
From an initial plan of eight teams in the WMPBL Invitational tournament, Ong’s team decided to expand to 14 squads due to the insistent demand of women ball clubs across the country.
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Bridging across collegiate, LGU-based, and commercial ball clubs, the WMPBL is placing itself as a medium where the Filipina baller can thrive. Being witness to countless talented players during her stint as a coach, Ong is eager to give them even more space to live out their dreams.
“It is about creating a space where women can grow, where we can show what they’re capable of and where they can have a platform to be seen and celebrated. WMPBL, Ang Liga ng Bawat Pilipina. This is your league. It’s a place for women to not only showcase their talent but to build their careers. Find opportunities and build each other up.” said the tactician.
“It’s a place where wellness, physical, mental, and emotional wellness is at the forefront where you can thrive in every aspect of your life — not just only on the basketball court. To our athletes here today, you are the heart of this league. Your dedication, your strength, and your passion will be the foundation of something powerful. The road ahead may not [be] always be easy, but it’s a road filled with possibilities,” she added.
Ong’s very own UST team will be competing in the inaugural tournament, which will be joined by fellow UAAP teams FEU and Adamson. CEU will also be participating in the tournament.
Other squads include Discovery Perlas, New Zealand Blue Fire, San Juan Lady Knights, and the Imus Lady Magdalo, among others.
It is currently an 18-and-over tournament before shifting to 21 and above when it turns professional by June.
Now offering a chance for women’s basketball players after their collegiate careers and the national team, the WMPBL gives current and next generation basketball players a way to continue their play in a sustainable platform.
“Together, we are proving something that will not only change the future of basketball for women in the Philippines but also open the doors for future generations. So let’s celebrate this moment and let’s celebrate each other. This league is for every Filipina, every woman who loves basketball, and every woman who dreams of making her mark in this world. Let’s make this something we can all be proud of. Let’s show the world that the future of basketball is female,” said Ong.
Apart from Pacquiao’s support through the MPBL, local government units are also pushing for the league through LGU-based teams like the Cavite ‘Tol Patriots that are supported by Senator Francis Tolentino, who also graced the event on Sunday.
“For the last two days, our team in Cavite, my son is here, we’ve been conducting tryouts for the last two days. So probably looking around, we might as well sign in some of the players, and pirate some of them. I am here to give 100% support as well as the province of Cavite, where my niece is the incumbent governor. We hope this league a launching pad not just for new athletes, but a launching pad for females, for Pinays to achieve their dreams. We hope to be part of this,” said Tolentino.
The league is set to open its invitational tournament mid-January next year with 14 teams battling in two groups of seven before one ultimate champion is crowned by April.