While watching Game 2 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals, I just realized something.
Perpetual must be so happy right now.
Four former Altas are in the spotlight at the moment: Scottie Thompson and Ben Adamos for Ginebra, and Kim Aurin and Jielo Razon for TNT.
Bong Hawkins paved the way as the first Perpetual player to enter the PBA back in 1991. Since then, the school has produced players, though many struggled to last beyond two seasons. Ranking behind Hawkins and Thompson, Chester Tolomia is arguably the third most notable Perpetual alum.
When it comes to championships, Jomer Rubi came close during his rookie season with the Tanduay Rhum Masters in 1999. Still, only a few Altas have secured titles: Hawkins, Thompson, Aurin, Jojo Manalo (with the 2002 Coca-Cola Tigers and 2003 TNT Phone Pals), June Carmona (with limited action for San Miguel in 2000), and Kyt Jimenez (in San Miguel’s 2023-24 Commissioner’s Cup win).
For years, Perpetual has been searching for stronger representation in the league. Players like Eric Quiday, Dom Javier, Khiel Misa, Harold Arboleda, Juneric Baloria, and Gab Dagangon all had their moments but struggled to leave a lasting mark. Hawkins brought pride in the '90s, and Thompson delivered the school's first PBA MVP, but for Perpetual to consistently produce elite talents, they need to create a better pathway for aspiring pros.
Perpetual has had just five first-round picks in its history: Hawkins, Carmona, Tolomia, Thompson, and Adamos. But with San Miguel now backing the Altas, there’s hope this partnership will elevate the program and establish Perpetual as a prime destination for future basketball stars.