Ceres leads PPL field; Global inclusion draws protest from ex-stars

Ceres-Negros, the champion of the last two national competitions, headlines the seven-team cast seeing action in the reboot of top-flight football in the country—the Philippine Premier League—kicking off on March 30.

The Bacolod-based Busmen, who ruled the first two editions of the Philippines Football League, are joined by reigning Paulino Alcantara winner Kaya Iloilo, Stallion Laguna and United Makati (formerly Global Makati).

The announcement of Global as part of the league, however, was met with protest especially from its former players, who are still owed salary from last season.

“Until Global settles payment to the people they owe, they should not be allowed to play,” said former Global player Anton del Rosario, a former national team player.

“Is the PPL really supporting teams that don’t pay their players? They should not list Global until all is paid.”

Global owner Mark Jarvis earlier promised they will settle all past dues before the league officially kicks off.

The PPL also welcomed back Philippine Air Force and Green Archers United, which last saw action in the United Football League first division, and Mendiola FC.