DESPITE being diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer, LA Tenorio of crowd favorite Barangay Ginebra is hoping to play basketball again.

Tenorio, nicknamed “Iron Man” of the PBA, announced that he will undergo treatment under the best doctors in the Philippines and Singapore in the next few months after he was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer three weeks ago.

The 38-year-old guard from Nasugbu, Batangas admitted he underwent surgery last week that caused him to miss several games for the Gin Kings.

Tenorio earned the monicker of “Iron Man” for his longevity on the playing court. But his streak of 744 straight games played — the longest in the PBA — ended when he did not play last March 1,
Tenorio said he is “lifting everything to God now and believes there‘s a higher purpose as I go through this part of my life.”

Tenorio also assured his fans that he is not yet retiring from the game and even hopes to return stronger.

Tenorio’s statement:

“I would like to issue a statement about my health status by firstly apologizing to my teammates, some coaches, the PBA, the fans, the media and even some friends. As most of you are aware I have been nursing a minor injury since the Finals last January. I used that as the reason for my sudden absence. My sincerest apologies to all.

With my profession in sports tied in health and entertainment, it will be very difficult to keep the real reason a secret any longer and will only lead to unnecessary gossips, fake news and misinterpretations.

I was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. The initial testing three weeks ago led me to instantly miss practices and games. I have completed my surgery last week and will soon undergo treatment for the next few months.

I have given not only 17 full years to the PBA, but have dedicated my whole life to basketball. I have committed my body and health for the love of the game.

Sadly, there are things beyond one’s control. But with my FAITH, I am lifting everything to God now and I believe there is a higher purpose as I go through this part of my life. I am not yet retiring from the game I love, and with the help of the best doctors in the Philippines and Singapore, I BELIEVE I can touch a basketball once more and return stronger.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who have been helping me in this journey. I am truly blessed to be part of the San Miguel Family – Boss RSA’s undying support and sincere care has been truly a Godsend. Boss Alfrancis Chua – my family and I appreciate you, thank you for everything.

Lastly, to all, as much as I greatly appreciate everyone’s well-wishes and messages of support and prayers – for my children’s well-being, in this social media and internet era, I am humbly asking everyone’s respect for my family to go through this journey privately and discreetly as much as possible.

Thank you and God bless.”