Basketball controversy: GAB probes Bulacan vs. Bacolod MPBL game

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) launched a fact-finding investigation into a basketball controversy arising from the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) game between the Bulacan Kuyas and Bacolod Maskarra on July 28.

Bulacan defeated Bacolod, 100-64, in a game that quickly became one of the league’s most talked-about contests this season.

The result drew scrutiny from basketball players, fans, and observers online. Many have questioned the sequence of plays and speculated about possible game-fixing and sports betting. No evidence has been publicly presented to support those allegations.

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Unpacking a basketball controversy

In a statement, GAB said it has begun a formal investigation and will require certain individuals to explain.

“Following standard regulatory procedure, the GAB will require those who appeared to have committed acts that can be considered as conduct unbecoming of a professional basketball player to submit their respective comments,” the agency said.

GAB stressed that the process is intended to ensure due process. It will allow all parties involved an opportunity to be heard before any decision is reached.

The board added that it will evaluate all submissions and resolve the matter in accordance with the rules. They will refrain from commenting further until the investigation is completed.

Bacolod’s losses

The controversy intensified after videos of the game’s closing minutes circulated widely on social media. In the final 7:48 of the contest, Bacolod failed to score a single field goal, allowing Bulacan to pull away for the 36-point victory.

The MPBL is expected to conduct its own review of the circumstances. As of Thursday night, July 30, the league has yet to release an official statement on the incident.

Bacolod’s defeat marked a series of lopsided losses this season. They were demolished by Abra, 129-45, and also lost to Quezon 113-61, and Bataan, 113-62.

Even the mayor is worried

In earlier reports, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya said he wanted an investigation into allegations of match manipulation.

In a letter to MPBL CEO Joe Ramos, Mayor Gasataya said that using the name “Masskara” carries the trademark of the city’s iconic festival, which represents the resilience of the people of Bacolod.

He said that the team’s performance did not reflect those values, particularly after Bacolod failed to score against Bulacan for nearly eight minutes.

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