The Abra Weavers will showcase the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League’s (MPBL) style of play on the international stage when they tangle with Hong Kong Eastern on 3 October in the East Asia Super League (EASL) 2026-27 Season opener at the 16,000-seater SM Seaside Cebu Arena in Cebu City.

The Weavers’ participation marks the first time that the MPBL will represent the country in the tournament featuring the best teams in the region.

The Weavers, the reigning titlists and owners of the best record (21-2) in the ongoing SportsPlus MPBL 2026 Season elimination round, should be no pushovers if they avail of the four imports, including an Asian heritage and a naturalized player, allowed each EASL team.

“The Abra Weavers have earned this opportunity through their championship season, and I couldn’t think of a better way to introduce them to Asia than by opening the EASL season in front of Filipino basketball fans,” said MPBL founder and chairman Manny Pacquiao.

“This is another proud milestone for the MPBL and Philippine basketball, and we’re excited to see Abra represent our league on the regional stage.”

Reigning Most Valuable Player Dave Ildefonso, Filipino-American standout DJ Fenner, 2025 Rookie of the Year Raven Gonzales, Jake Figueroa, Tucker Molina, Mike Ayonayon and Encho Serrano will power the Weavers in the tourney that used to feature Philippine Basketball Association clubs like San Miguel Beer and Meralco.

MPBL commissioner Emmer Oreta believes the MPBL-EASL strategic partnership that was announced on 19 August will augur well for the country’s biggest regional cage league.

“We’re excited to partner with EASL. This is a big step for MPBL. More importantly, it gives us the chance to compete against some of the best in Asia. That experience will help raise the level of our players, teams, and the league while giving MPBL greater exposure internationally,” Oreta said. “Hopefully, this is just the beginning of MPBL making its mark on the international stage.”

Henry Kerins, CEO of EASL, envisions a more successful season with new elite teams in tow.

“This season represents another significant step forward for EASL,” Kerins said.

“Our next level vision is about raising the standard in every aspect of our league — from the quality of competition and fan experience to our storytelling and production. Launching the season in Cebu with four outstanding clubs, in a brand-new arena, is the perfect way to begin our biggest and most exciting season yet.”

Also making their initial EASL stint are reigning B. League champion Nagasaki Velca, Korean Basketball League finalists Goyang Sono Skygunners, TSG GhostHawks of Taiwan’s P. League+, and Macau Hou Chon, which will clash with Taipei Fubon Braves in the 4 p.m. inaugural match.

Completing this year’s cast are Taoyuan Pauian Pilots, Ryukyu Golden Kings, Alvark Tokyo, KBL champion Busan KCC Egis, and Mongolia champion Ulaanbaatar Xac Broncos.

Last year, the Bolts represented the Philippines, but failed to advance to the postseason with a 3-3 record. In the 2024-25 Season, the San Miguel Beermen went winless in six starts in Group A, while the Bolts finished 2-4 in Group B.