For June Mar Fajardo, the result on the scoreboard will fade with time. The privilege of wearing “Pilipinas” across his chest never will.
The longtime Gilas Pilipinas cornerstone walked away from Monday night’s 92-49 defeat to Australia with more than a bounce-back performance. It was another reminder that, at this stage of his decorated career, every national team appearance is a chance he refuses to take for granted.
After being held scoreless in the Philippines’ heartbreaking double-overtime loss to New Zealand just days earlier, Fajardo answered with eight points, six rebounds, three assists, and a block against the Boomers. He continued to battle inside despite Australia’s size, physicality, and relentless pressure, giving Gilas one of its few steady presences throughout the contest.
Still, the nine-time PBA Most Valuable Player said the statistics mattered far less than the opportunity itself.
“Isang karangalan na makalaro sa national team. Sobrang daming players sa Pilipinas na gustong makalaro sa national team.”
Fajardo admitted he has always felt fortunate to be consistently trusted by the Gilas coaching staff throughout the years, recognizing that many talented players have had to fight for the same opportunity.
“Sobrang swerte ko and blessed ako. Hindi mahirap para sa’kin na makapasok sa roster. ‘Yung iba na dadaan sa tryouts, ako diretso na ako sa line-up.”
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Now 36 years old, Fajardo understands that the remaining chapters of his international career are becoming fewer. Rather than dwell on that reality, it has strengthened his appreciation every time his name appears on the national team roster.
“Hindi ako magsasawa na maglaro para sa national team.”
His determination, however, was not enough to lift Gilas past one of Asia’s basketball powerhouses.
Australia controlled the game from the opening tip and never allowed the Filipinos to find any rhythm. Gilas committed 19 turnovers that turned into 30 Boomers points, surrendered 20 fast-break points, and struggled to match Australia’s dominance on the boards as the hosts cruised to victory.
Despite consecutive losses to New Zealand and Australia in the third window, the Philippines still advanced to the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers with a 2-4 record.
With the next phase beginning in late August, Fajardo and Gilas will once again answer the call when they face Jordan on August 28, another opportunity for the veteran big man to do what he says he will never grow tired of—representing the country.
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