WMPBL concludes inaugural tournament; Pilipinas Aguilas win

The Women's Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) concluded its inaugural Invitational Tournament on Wednesday evening, with Pilipinas Aguilas defeating University of Santo Tomas 54-45 in Game 3.

Commissioner Haydee Ong expressed her excitement about the league's growing viewership and the strong demand for women's basketball in the Philippines.

League president John Kallos emphasized that turning professional means providing a permanent career path for Filipino women basketball players beyond college and national team opportunities.

Ong, who is also UST’s head coach, shared her long-held dream of creating a platform for women's basketball, noting that this moment represents an opportunity for future generations of female athletes to pursue careers in the sport.

To ensure sustainability ahead of the league's first full professional season later this year, Ong plans to implement clear standards and rigorous screening criteria for teams.