‘Egay’ Gomez passes on, 71

MANILA, Philippines - Edgardo “Egay” Gomez, a former Jose Rizal College star who later became a longtime mainstay of the famed Yco Painters in the old MICAA, passed away Saturday. He was 71.

A 6-foot-4 center with a soft shooting touch, Gomez also became a part of the early years of the PBA, playing for the U/Tex Wranglers before ending his career with Royal Tru Orange under coach Ed Ocampo, a former teammate at Yco.

Among his former teammates who were still his buddies until his passing are Elias Tolentino, Turo Valenzona and Jun Celis.

In fact, Gomez was among those contacting friends, inviting them for a get-together to celebrate the birthdays of Tolentino and Valenzona late this month.

The group, including Orly Castelo and Freddie Webb, met at his wake at Arlington’s Chapel in Quezon City.

In the 80s, Gomez turned into coaching, handling Trinity College and JRC in the NCAA.

He also handled several teams in the Philippine Amateur Basketball League, winning a precious one for his beloved Yco team with a roster that included future PBA stars Alvin Patrimonio, Glenn Capacio, Jack Tanuan and Eric Altamirano, among others.