Arwind Santos Shines in Cebu, Leads RKF-Iloilo to Victory in Charter Cup

Former PBA star Arwind Santos delivered a stellar performance, captivating Cebuano fans as RKF-Iloilo secured its second consecutive win in the Cebu City Charter Cup. The team triumphed over Tiger Ship Builders with a decisive 95-80 score at the City Sports Institute Gym on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Santos Dominates with 24 Points and Nine Rebounds

Arwind Santos, the controversial forward from the Basilan Star Horse in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), showcased his enduring skills by scoring 24 points and grabbing nine rebounds in just 29 minutes of play. His impressive display left spectators in awe and earned praise from Alelu Flores, coach of the USPF Panthers, who previously collaborated with Santos at the FEU Tamaraws in the UAAP. "He's still in condition. He can still dominate," Flores remarked, highlighting Santos's sustained athletic prowess.

This game marked Santos's inaugural appearance in a local league in Cebu, and his presence drew significant attention. After the final buzzer, fans eagerly surrounded him for autographs and selfies, demonstrating his lasting popularity. In a heartfelt interview, Santos expressed his gratitude in a mix of English and Tagalog, saying, "Maraming salamat po sa pagsuporta, sa pagtangkilik sa lega na ito. Sana enjoy natin palagi ang bawat araw, at ang mga laro namin ay para sa inyo (Thank you very much for your support and for patronizing this league. I hope we always enjoy every day, and our games are for you)."

Keys to Longevity and Advice for Youth

Santos also shared the secrets behind his ability to maintain high performance despite his age. "Unang una wala tayong bisyo, hindi tayo umiinom, naninigarilyo o ano mang bawal na gamot, wala tayo nyan. Tapos nakapag gym tayo everyday, basketball, kailangan yung conditioning hindi mawawala, yung tamang pahinga, andiyan pa rin yan, kaya hangang ngayon nagka perform pa rin ako, kasi ganun ko kamahal ang basketball, passion ko yan (First, we have no vices—we don't drink, smoke, or use any illegal drugs. Then, we go to the gym every day, play basketball, ensuring conditioning doesn't fade, and get proper rest. That's why I still perform well today, because I love basketball so much; it's my passion)," he explained.

Offering guidance to young players, especially those from Cebu, Santos emphasized humility and composure. "Sa lahat nang mga youth na Cebuanos, alam ko sa bawat sulok ng Pilipinas maraming talented na players, pero manatili lang tayong humble. Wag nating kalimutan ang itaas, kailangan lagi natin siyang kasama. H'wag masyadong mainit ang ulo, yun lang (To all the Cebuano youth, I know there are many talented players in every corner of the Philippines, but let's stay humble. Don't forget to look up; we always need Him with us. Don't get too hot-headed, that's all)," he advised.

Game Highlights and Team Performances

The match saw Tiger Ship Builders put up a strong fight in the first half, thanks to efforts from Jun Manzo and Genmar Bragais. However, RKF-Iloilo ignited a powerful rally in the third quarter, with Santos receiving crucial support from teammates Ced Ablaza and JP Calvo. This surge extended their lead to 71-54, and RKF never relinquished control, improving their record to 2-0. The loss dropped the Ship Builders to 1-1.

Ced Ablaza led RKF-Iloilo with 25 points, while JP Calvo contributed 23 points. For the Ship Builders, Jun Manzo scored 16 points, and Genmar Bragais added 13 points.

Other Charter Cup Results

In other Cebu City Charter Cup action, the Mighty Warriors also notched their second win by overpowering KESB Construction 70-63. Darrel Villarosa starred with 25 points, including three three-pointers, and Raffy Celis chipped in 16 points. KESB remains winless after two games.

Meanwhile, Kuya Eric rebounded from a Game One loss by crushing Service Heroes 114-89. Jancork Cabahug exploded for 28 points, nine rebounds, and two assists, while Emman Suarez led the Service Heroes (0-2) with 18 points.

Looking ahead, today's games (Sunday, February 22) feature: