Haydee Ong resigns as WMPBL commissioner citing ‘irreconcilable differences’

In her statement, Ong explained that although she took on the role with the goal of creating a professional platform for Filipina players, recent developments within the league’s management made that objective “impossible to fulfill.”

(C) WMPBL

“When I accepted this role, I had one vision: to create a professional platform for Filipina basketball players to showcase their talent,” she said.

“However, over the past several months, it has become increasingly clear that the current environment within the league’s management has made that mission impossible to fulfill. Unfortunately, there have been irreconcilable differences in making critical and major decisions for the league.”

The 55-year-old tactician emphasized that the athletes remain the driving force behind the WMPBL’s growth, highlighting their central role in the league and calling for leadership that matches their dedication to the sport.

Ong clarified that her resignation is not a departure from basketball but a decision to uphold the principles she has carried throughout her career. She reaffirmed her commitment to advancing women’s professional basketball, a cause she has championed long before joining the WMPBL.

“To the players, you are the heart of this league. You deserve a leadership that is as committed to the game as you are,” she said.

“As a final remark, I am stepping down not to abandon the sport but to preserve the values I have spent my entire career upholding. I remain committed to promoting women’s professional basketball.”