The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is set to immortalize one of its greatest legends in a new and permanent way. The PBA Press Corps announced on Thursday, January 15, 2026, the creation of the Ramon Fernandez Trophy, which will be awarded to the Finals Most Valuable Player starting with the league's 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals.
A Legacy Forged in Championships
This prestigious award is named in honor of Ramon "El Presidente" Fernandez, whose monumental career is defined by a record 19 PBA championships, the most by any player in league history. The legendary center gave his blessing for the honor during a meeting with PBA Press Corps president Vladimir Eduarte of Abante/Tonite and other officers at the 50th Season opener last October 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
"To have the PBA Finals MVP trophy bear my name, especially in this 50th year, the Golden Anniversary of the Philippine Basketball Association, is something I never imagined yet will forever treasure," Fernandez expressed. He described the recognition as more than personal, calling it a reminder of a lifetime shaped by the league that gave him "purpose, pride and a second family."
More Than Just a Trophy: A Testament to Greatness
Fernandez's dominance in the PBA is statistically unparalleled. Beyond his championship rings, he remains the league's all-time leading scorer with 18,996 points. His name still tops the career lists for:
- Total rebounds (8,652)
- Defensive rebounds (6,435)
- Shot blocks (1,853)
- Free throws made (3,848)
- Minutes played (36,624:30)
He also ranks second all-time in assists (5,220), steals (1,302), and games played (1,074). Over his illustrious 20-season career with teams like Toyota, Tanduay, San Miguel Beer, Beer Hausen, and Purefoods, he averaged 17.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game.
A Unanimous Decision for a Deserving Icon
PBA Press Corps president Vladimir Eduarte highlighted the fitting nature of the tribute. "With those 19 championships, who knows how many Finals MVP awards Fernandez could’ve won if such recognition had already been handed out during his time," Eduarte stated. "The Finals MVP trophy in Fernandez’s name is a well-deserved recognition the PBA Press Corps unanimously decided on."
The introduction of the Ramon Fernandez Trophy coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Press Corps awarding its first Finals MVP, which went to Jojo Lastimosa of Alaska in the 1996 All-Filipino Cup. This was two years after Fernandez concluded his legendary playing career. The move replaces the plaque previously given to winners, with future champions now receiving a trophy bearing the name of a man whose legacy is forever woven into the fabric of Philippine basketball.
