Grateful Boy Cabahug recalls humble beginnings at Alaska

CEBU, Philippines —  With deep gratitude, Cebuano basketball great Elmer “Boy” Cabahug recalled fondly his humble beginnings at Alaska Milk days after one of the most decorated franchises in PBA history called it quits after 35 glorious years in the league.

Alaska always holds a special place in Cabahug’s heart.

That is because the team was the first to open the door of opportunity for the former University of the Visayas (UV) Green Lancers standout in Asia’s first professional league.

Coming off a brilliant amateur career both in the collegiate and commercial ranks, Cabahug fulfilled his dream to play in the PBA when he was picked by the Alaska Milkmen in the 1989 Draft.

Right in his rookie year, Cabahug etched his name in stone after being voted as MVP of the inaugural PBA All-Star Game, becoming the first ever player representing Alaska to win the coveted award.

After two seasons with Alaska, the sharp-shooting guard from Mandaue City was acquired by Purefoods in 1991during the off-season trade with Jojo Lastimosa.

Three decades later, Cabahug’s wonderful memories with Alaska still linger in his mind.

“Thank you Alaska Aces, formerly known as the Alaska Airforce and the Alaska Milkmen, for drafting a lanky kid from Cebu to eventually becoming the first PBA All-Star MVP representing Alaska. Honor, Integrity, and Discipline are the values, we players, carry on and off the court,” wrote Cabahug on his Facebook page he accompanied with a gallery of pictures and news clippings showing his memorable moments with Alaska.

Like any other Alaska diehards, Cabahug can’t help but feel sad after the Alaska Milk Corporation announced last Wednesday that the team will retire after the 2021 Governors’ Cup, putting an end to a remarkable PBA journey that spanned nearly four decades.

For Cabahug, the PBA will never be the same again without Alaska, the league’s second most successful ballclub with a total of 14 championships including a rare grandslam feat in 1996 under its belt.

“It is with my deep honor and privilege to be a part of the team’s history. Kudos to the great management and leadership of Mr. Wilfred Uytengsu and family. Hats off to the great coaches and staff for all your hard work. A shout out to my fellow players who have donned the red and white,” the basketball star-turned politician continued.

“These are the memories that I will forever cherish. Maraming Salamat Alaska,” Cabahug ended.