MANILA -- The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) on Tuesday announced the departure of Tarlac United Force from the tourney due to "unfulfilled financial obligations."

The team from Central Luzon only joined last month as an expansion team and has yet to play a single game in the basketball tournament.

"Due to the team's unfulfilled financial obligations despite numerous requests and demands by the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) to rectify the situation, the Tarlac United Force will no longer be part of the 2024 MPBL Season," the league said in a social media post.

The league did not expound on the details of said failed commitment but expressed "gratitude" for the support of Tarlaqueños.

"The MPBL extends its sincere gratitude to the fans and supporters of the Province of Tarlac for its unwavering support and understanding," the statement added.

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"We eagerly look forward to the possibility of having a team from the esteemed province that can provide fans with a source of pride and unity in the near future."

The North Division still has 14 teams in total, while the South Division has 15.

The 2024 season started on April 6 after being postponed twice. Pampanga Giant Lanterns look to defend their title this season.

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