Philippines Football League giants FC Meralco Manila will cease operations effective immediately and will not be a part of the country’s top-flight league for 2018 season.
The Sparks, who were founded as Loyola Agila Football Club in 2006, announced the sad news on Monday through their official Facebook page.
As the one of the country’s biggest club, Meralco Manila cited problems with getting sponsors and operating costs are behind the decision to disband the club.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce that the club will be ceasing operations immediately and will no longer participate in the second season of the Philippines Football League,” read a statement.
“Circumstances beyond our control have made it difficult for FC Meralco Manila to continue. The board and management of the Sparks have tried to arrange for new investors that would keep the organization running, but those efforts have sadly fallen short.
“We sincerely apologise to our fans, and thank them for all the support over the last seven years. Special thanks also to our sponsors Jollibee and Mizuno for believing in the club and being there for us. Thanks as well to the City of Manila for being our home.”
Meralco Manila, who had previous name Loyola Meralco Sparks in 2011 after the acquisition of Manila Electric Company, have won United Football League (UFL) in 2013 and PFF National Club Championship in 2014.