Gilas SEA Games roster may blend PBA, collegiate standouts
4
Meralco Bolts to represent Philippines in 2025–26 EASL Season
The Meralco Bolts will serve as the sole Philippine representative in the upcoming 2025-26 East Asia Super League (EASL) season, as confirmed by league officials on Thursday, July 31.
With the PBA’s 50th season packed with games, the league opted to field only one team instead of the usual two. PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial explained the decision, citing scheduling difficultIes.
CHRIS NEWSOME
“There are a lot of games, so we can't field two teams. It would be difficult for our schedule,” Marcial said in Filipino.
The Bolts, who recently reached the quarterfinals of the Basketball Champions League Asia in Dubai, will begin their EASL campaign on October 22 against Japan B.LEAGUE powerhouse Ryukyu Golden Kings, in a road match.
Despite a demanding PBA Season 49 schedule, Meralco showed their mettle in international play — notching key victories before bowing out with a hard-fought 78–83 loss to Ulaanbaatar Xac Broncos last June 11.
Now, with experience under their belt and the country’s hopes on their shoulders, the Bolts will aim to make a deep run in the region’s premier club competition, which features champions and top teams from Japan, Korea, Greater China, and Southeast Asia.
