[3] The PFL followed a home-and-away format which caused financial and logistical problems for the league's participating clubs.

[8] The PPL, sometimes described as a rebranded PFL,[9] replaced it[3] and was described as a "new neutral independent league" which has an objective to develop football in the Philippines, according to its commissioner Bernie Sumayao.

[4] "Philippine Premier League" was among the proposed names mentioned in the Nielsen Study commissioned for the then-planned establishment of the PFL.

[14] The season's launch was moved to April 27 from March 31[15] so that the two clubs can resubmit relevant documents to settle their licensing issues.

[16] In mid-April 2019, PFF President Mariano Araneta expressed confidence that the league will push through despite the two club's licensing issues and noted that the two teams already appealed their case.

In a joint conference they stated that the lack of professionalism, transparency and disagreement with the centralized format of the league as their reasons for their withdrawal.

Philippine Air Force and Mendiola figured in a 2–2 draw despite both teams' licensing issues have not been settled yet, while Kaya-Iloilo had a 3–0 victory over Green Archers.

Sumayao also cited the fact that an AFC elite referee officiated the match between Kaya and Green Archers United as proof of the support of the PFF of the league.

[20] The decision was made reportedly due to "serious mismanagement" of the league, inability to secure a title sponsor, and allowing Mendiola and Philippine Air Force to play in defiance of the federation.

[9] The first leg of the inaugural season was held in Metro Manila with the University of Makati Stadium strongly considered as the venue.

[8] Each leg was to feature centralized matches to be hosted in specific venues to minimize costs for the league's participating clubs.