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| Amid the founding of the MPPT, Manny Pacquiao is also observing the recent game-fixing allegations in the MPBL. Ivan Saldajeno |
MAKATI—MPBL founder and chairman Manny Pacquiao expressed disappointment that game-fixing schemes have hounded the league after it slapped a ban on Bacolod regarding such accusations.
Speaking to reporters after the press launch of his new professional sports venture, the MPPT, on Friday night at the Dusit Thani Manila Ballroom, the boxing legend said that the recent result-rigging allegations are an insult to the fans.
"Sinasabi ko sa kanila na ang MPBL ay nagbibigay ng kasiyahan sa larangan ng sports sa buong Pilipinas at sa mga Filipino. Ayoko yung may mga hocus-pocus na nangyayari. Dinadaya yung mga tao. Gusto ko yung mga players maglaro nang may integrity and honesty," Pacquiao said.
He also confirmed an insider report that he and some other league officials are closely monitoring the games.
"Lagi akong nakasubaybay. In fact, may team akong binuo to oversee and review all the games. Every time na may laro, may mga taong nakasubaybay at pinag-aaralan ang mga laro kung may nagbebenta o wala," Pacquiao continued, although he did not divulge who is part of the said committee.
He then called out those who are involved in game-fixing schemes in the MPBL, saying, "Wag nating lokohin yung taumbayan kasi pangit yung nagchi-cheer yung mga tao tapos yun pala, it's a fixed game."
The recent game-fixing issue came amid what many think has been the most exciting season in the MPBL's eight-year run, with potential early picks in next year's PBA Draft showing what they can offer in the pro ranks.
Some projected first-rounders even landed international offers, with former San Juan signings Gerry Abadiano and Mike Phillips heading to Ulsan and Kyoto, respectively, although it means they are now likely out of the draft.
While mainly due to unpaid salaries, the MPBL already flagged Iloilo for game-fixing allegations as well, and with Bacolod also given a ban, the warning just became sterner.
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