MPBL (Philippines) 2026/27

The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League operates as a regional, grassroots professional basketball competition in the Philippines. It occupies a distinct position in the local basketball hierarchy, separate from the top-flight PBA. The league is defined by its community-based team identities, with squads representing specific provinces, cities, or municipalities rather than corporate franchises. This structure facilitates a home-and-away format that brings games directly to local communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The league features 26 active teams for the 2026 season following mid-season disqualifications of two sides due to integrity violations. The campaign is divided into North and South Divisions. Teams contest a round-robin regular season comprising 26 to 27 games. A play-in tournament determines the final two playoff seeds per division. The playoffs utilize best-of-3, 5, or 7 series, culminating in a best-of-7 National Finals between the division champions. The competition serves as a developmental platform for collegiate players and a destination for retired PBA veterans. Active PBA players under contract are banned from participating. There is no promotion or relegation between the MPBL and the PBA, as the leagues operate independently. Entry into the league is via franchise acquisition rather than sporting promotion. The Pampanga Giant Lanterns hold the record for most championships with two titles. The current defending champions are the Abra Solid North Weavers, who secured the 2025 title by sweeping the Quezon Huskers. The league was granted professional status by the Games and Amusements Board in December 2021, transitioning from its amateur origins.