June Mar Fajardo has confirmed the end of his Gilas Pilipinas career after helping the national team defeat Iran, 68–56, in the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers. The veteran center played his final international game on August 30, 2026, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Speaking to reporters after the victory, Fajardo made his decision clear by saying, “Last game na, last game na talaga.” His farewell ended a 13-year run representing the Philippines in major international Basketball competitions.
The 36-year-old did not simply appear for a ceremonial sendoff. Fajardo contributed six points and two rebounds in seven minutes, helping the Philippines recover from a difficult start and complete a sweep of its two home games in the fourth qualifying window. The longtime national-team player said he wanted to give everything he could while cherishing his final game.
Fajardo Helps Turn the Game Around
Iran controlled the opening minutes and built an early 18–5 lead as Gilas Pilipinas struggled to find its rhythm. The hosts responded in the second quarter, with Fajardo providing an important lift through a jump hook and four successful free throws. His six points helped the Philippines erase a 29–21 deficit and take a 34–31 advantage.
The game remained close in the second half, with both teams tied at 54 late in the contest. Gilas then delivered a decisive 14–2 closing run behind Juan Gomez de Liaño, Dwight Ramos, Kai Sotto, and AJ Edu. Their strong finish secured a 68–56 victory and gave Fajardo a memorable ending to his international Basketball career.
Final-Game Details
The key information from Fajardo’s farewell appearance includes:
- Final score: Philippines 68, Iran 56
- Competition: 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers
- Qualifying stage: Fourth window
- Venue: Mall of Asia Arena
- Fajardo’s statistics: Six points and two rebounds
- Playing time: Seven minutes
- Result for the window: Two wins in two home games
The win gave Fajardo a positive ending to a national-team journey built on commitment, physical play, and a willingness to accept different roles.
A 13-Year Gilas Pilipinas Journey
Fajardo’s final appearance carried added meaning because his international journey came full circle at the Mall of Asia Arena. He began playing in FIBA competitions for the Philippines during the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship, which was also held at the same venue.
His game against Iran was his 70th appearance across FIBA competitions. During those 13 years, he represented the country in regional tournaments, Asian qualifiers, and multiple FIBA Basketball World Cups.
Fajardo was part of the Philippine teams that competed in the 2014, 2019, and 2023 editions of the FIBA Basketball World Cup. His international career covered different coaching systems and several generations of players, but his role remained centered on interior strength, rebounding, screening, and dependable low-post play.
His national-team career also came with physical challenges. Playing professional Basketball in the PBA while joining international training camps and tournaments demanded careful management of his body. Despite those demands, Fajardo continued answering national-team calls over more than a decade.
Why His Departure Matters to Philippine Basketball
Fajardo’s retirement leaves Gilas Pilipinas without one of its most experienced centers. His strength, positioning, defense, and international experience made him a reliable presence against physical opponents.
Kai Sotto and AJ Edu are now expected to take on greater frontcourt responsibilities. Their role in the closing run against Iran showed that the next generation is ready to lead Philippine Basketball forward.
Fajardo Leaves Gilas on His Own Terms
After the game, Fajardo explained that he wanted to cherish the moment and offer whatever assistance he could. His performance matched that message. He played limited minutes but provided timely points during the comeback before watching his teammates finish the job.
His exit from international competition does not mean he is retiring from professional Basketball. Fajardo remains an important player for the San Miguel Beermen in the PBA, where he has built one of the most decorated careers in league history.
For Gilas Pilipinas, however, the game against Iran marked the end of an era. Fajardo leaves after 13 years, 70 FIBA appearances, and three Basketball World Cup campaigns. The 68–56 victory gave the longtime center a successful farewell and allowed Filipino fans to recognize his lasting contribution to the national team.
