MANILA, Philippines – The cast is set for next season's 1st Division, with Ceres-La Salle and Manila Jeepney securing promotion from the 2nd Division last week. Not only did both clubs top the highly competitive second tier, but they also achieved the feat in their first complete seasons competing in the United Football League.
Bacolod powerhouse Ceres-La Salle claimed the 2nd Division title in style, losing only a single match en route to 17 wins and three draws, with only one match left to be played. The two-time PFF National Club Championship winners have 54 points, scoring a spectacular 89 goals throughout the campaign so far, while conceding only 17.
Ceres-La Salle may have fallen short in the recent AFC President's Cup, but they can take solace in the fact that they will be joining the top flight of the UFL next season, where they are expected to compete for the 1st Division title against heavyweights Global, Loyola Meralco Sparks, Kaya, and Stallion Giligan's.
In their maiden season as a club, Manila Jeepney's promotion to the big leagues reflects a commendable rise from initial formation to 2nd Division powerhouse. With Kale Alvarez at the helm, Manila's official football club recovered from a slump late in February to end up with 46 points, consisting of 15 wins, a draw, and five losses. The shrewd acquisition of key players Jaham Taher, Ref Cuaresma, and Jake Morallo during the March window improved the club significantly at a crucial point of the season.
Philippine Air Force's loss to Manila All-Japan on Sunday doomed the Airmen to remain in the 2nd Division for at least another season.