GAB approves MPBL bid to turn pro

Another basketball league in the Philippines has turned professional.

The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) on Thursday approved the accreditation of Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) to turn pro.

According to GAB chair Abraham Mitra, the MPBL becoming a pro league is one of the biggest events that happened in the agency in the past few years.

"Through perseverance and patience, nandito na tayo [we are here]. We are back with the help of our partner Chooks-to-Go and the guidance of GAB," said league commissioner Kenneth Duremdes.

Meanwhile, Mitra reminded the players of their roles as professional players.

"We just want to remind everybody that we will not allow any game-fixing," the GAB commissioner said. "Alam natin na 'yan nakakasira sa ating laro. Sa ating code of conduct, nakalagay dun na you have to disassociate yourself from game-fixing and point-shaving."

["We know that it destroys our game. It is indicated in the code of conduct that you have to disassociate yourself from game-fixing and point-shaving."]

GAB previously sanctioned Daniel de Guzman, who was supposed to play for the San Miguel Beermen in the PBA 3x3, due to allegations of game-fixing. The sports agency also imposed sanctions on the VisMin Super Cup due to allegations of game-fixing in one of its matches.

In April, prosecutors said they will file criminal charges against 17 individuals over alleged game-fixing in MPBL back in 2019.

From December 11 to 23, MPBL will hold the Chooks-to-Go MPBL Invitational Tournament, its first tourney as a pro league. A total of 22 teams will participate in the competition for a chance to win P2 million.

Last November, MPBL said it will relax its eligibility rules on Fil-foreigners as they turn pro.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/MGP, GMA News