Months after plans were disclosed about a supposed rebranding of the group.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 20, P.O.S., Inc., the independent company handling the activities of the P-pop group MNL48 announced an important update regarding the team.
“Thank you always for your continued support of MNL48,” it opened its statement.
“After extensive discussions with all relevant parties, P.O.S Inc. has made the difficult decision to conclude MNL48’s activities as of the end of May 2026.”
Noting the support that MNL48 received through the support by many fans, members, staff, and all those involved, the company explained that it still had to look into the realities of the team.
“However, after carefully considering the sustainability of the management structure, the future operating environment, and the various conditions necessary to continue supporting the group in a stable manner, we have come to the conclusion that it would be difficult to continue MNL48’s activities going forward,” P.O.S. added.
As the management of the group, they said they have done their “utmost” to carry MNL48 forward in the best possible way.
“We deeply apologize for not being able to fully meet everyone’s expectations in the end,” it continued.
“We would also like to announce that the music video for ‘Pag-ibig Fortune Cookie,’ released on YouTube today, will be MNL48’s final work as a group,” they furthered, adding that the video conveys their gratitude toward all the fans who have supported the group, as well as the feelings of the members themselves.
“We sincerely hope you will watch and enjoy it,” they expressed.
Meanwhile, they also extended their “deepest gratitude” to all the fans who have continuously supported them, to every member who has been part of this journey, and to everyone involved with the group.
“We sincerely apologize for the sudden nature of this announcement and for arriving at this difficult decision.”
Lastly, “We deeply express our heartfelt gratitude once again for all the love and support you have given to MNL48 over the years.”
MNL48 was launched as a sister group of AKB48 from Japan, JKT48 in Indonesia, and BKK48 in Thailand after the original line-up, composed of 48 members, was formed through a segment on the noontime variety show It’s Showtime.
Since then, they have released songs lime Aitakatta, Pag-Ibig Fortune Cookie, and 365 Araw Ng Eroplanong Papel.
In January, plans were revealed for the group to change its name, with the company being the first to do so as it switched from its former name as MNL48, Inc. to P.O.S., Inc. Ultimately, that did not push through.