Ginebra pays tribute to its beloved masseur ‘Mang Jun’

MANILA, Philippines — One of the most valuable members of Barangay Ginebra has passed away.

Raphael “Mang Jun” Vicera, the team’s long-time masseur, died on Saturday due to diabetes complications. He was 67.

Ginebra lifer Mark Caguioa and head coach Tim Cone confirmed the sad development on their social media accounts with the multi-titled mentor calling Vicera his link to the great past of the Gin Kings.

Vicera worked for Ginebra for 37 years and was already with the club during its golden days when the iconic Robert Jaworksi was at its helm and living up to the team’s “never-say-die” mantra.

“For the people that (don’t) know Mang Jun he is a legend and one of the most important key members of the team,” posted Caguioa on his Instagram account. “He is always there when you need him. If you’re injured or you need a massage Mang Jun can do this for hours while telling you jokes. You can tell he loves working for Ginebra.”

“Kidding aside we will all miss you and I’m sure the old school fans and old school players will miss you too. My heart truly goes out to the Vicera family. Rest in peace we love you Mang Jun.”

Cone, who became the team’s head coach in 2015, said Vicera was a man whom the players and even team officials adored.

“Just heard the news of the passing of Mang Jun. He was really loved by the players and the organization, and he was my connection to the great Ginebra past. We all will miss him dearly,” posted Cone on Twitter.

Just heard the news of the passing of Mang Jun. He was really loved by the players and the organization, and he was my connection to the great Ginebra past. We all will miss him dearly.

— Tim Cone (@manilacone) August 9, 2020

LA Tenorio, assistant coach Richard del Rosario, and Joe Devance also sent out their respects for their beloved Mang Jun.

Maraming Salamat Mang Jun!RIP🙏 pic.twitter.com/NunBbhnowU

— Richard del Rosario (@charddelrosario) August 9, 2020