Two days before the PBA Commissioner’s Cup tips off, San Miguel Beer made waves with a significant trade, sending veteran stars Terrence Romeo and Vic Manuel to Terrafirma in exchange for younger talents Andreas Cahilig and Juami Tiongson. The PBA Commissioner's Office approved the deal on Monday.
Romeo and Manuel, who had recently been reduced to off-the-bench roles in San Miguel’s loaded rotation, are expected to see increased minutes and responsibilities with Terrafirma. In return, Cahilig, known for his defensive tenacity and versatility, bolsters SMB’s frontline depth, while Tiongson, a sharp-shooting guard, is primed to contribute to a championship-caliber roster.
Tiongson, a 33-year-old journeyman, has spent his PBA career with Blackwater, NLEX, and Terrafirma. This trade presents his first opportunity to compete for a title with a team as stacked as the Beermen. With Romeo out of the picture, he will likely share backcourt duties with SMB’s seasoned guards Chris Ross and Kris Rosales.
While Terrafirma gains two big names in Romeo and Manuel, the long-term value of this deal is already being questioned. Sources suggest that both players may not stay with the Dyip for long. Manuel, 37, is reportedly being courted by the MPBL’s Nueva Ecija Vanguards, while Romeo has expressed interest in pursuing opportunities abroad—an option he previously turned down out of loyalty to San Miguel.
Additionally, rumors hint that Terrafirma’s moves may not end here. There is speculation about a potential three-team trade involving Stanley Pringle, reuniting the guard with his former team, NorthPort, in exchange for Jio Jalalon.
Fans have been quick to critique the trade, with many concluding that this is a clear win for San Miguel. The ages of Romeo and Manuel, combined with their rumored plans to exit the PBA, make this deal feel lopsided in favor of the Beermen. Cahilig and Tiongson provide youthful energy, and their additions align with SMB’s goal of staying competitive while building for the future.
The skepticism surrounding Terrafirma's trades is also amplified by the team's reputation for facilitating deals that ultimately benefit the league's powerhouse franchises. This trade has only deepened that perception among fans.
While the trade shakes up both rosters, it seems San Miguel is playing chess while others are playing checkers. By acquiring Tiongson and Cahilig, SMB appears to have strengthened its present and future. On the other hand, Terrafirma may find itself facing further questions about its role in the league should Romeo and Manuel indeed part ways soon.
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