LAS PIÑAS CITY — No basketball player from University of Perpetual Help shall wear the number 12 jersey ever again.
This was after the school officially retired the number to honor the achievements of Rene 'Bong' Hawkins Jr., who played for the Altas before becoming one of the 50 Greatest Players in the history of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
The number 12 jersey was hung in the rafters of the Home of the Altas Gym II on Friday at the Las Piñas City campus of the university.
The ceremony was part of the University Week celebration and 50th Foundation Anniversary of the campus.
Hawkins was joined by University President Dr. Anthony Tamayo, Vice President for Sports Anton Tamayo and School Director Dr. Arnaldo De Guzman during the ceremony.
"It's an honor and pride to be one of the athletes to have a jersey retirement like this," said the 58-year-old Hawkins.
“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa Tamayo Family, specially to Sir Tony, Ma'am Daisy, Sir Anthony, our President and Anton Tamayo, Vice President for Sports sa parangal na ito."
Known as 'The Hawk' to basketball fans, Hawkins suited up for Perpetual Help from 1984 to 1989 in the NCAA under head coach Roberto Littaua.
Aside from being named to the 50 Greatest Players, Hawkins’ PBA achievements include the Finals MVP in 1996, an 8-time champion with Alaska, three-time All-Star selection, Most Improved Player in 1994, All-Defensive Team member in 1994, Mythical Second Team member in 1994 and 2000, and Mythical First Team member in 1995 and 1996.