UC’s Fajardo 1st overall pick by Petron Blaze

June Mar Farajdo

MANILA, Philippines—There was no surprise, the 6’10” June Mar Farajdo emerged as the first overall pick in the 2012 PBA Rookie Draft Sunday at the Robinsons Midtown Manila.

Petron Blaze, which got the first pick from Barako in a trade, acquired the services of the University of Cebu standout, who suited up for San Miguel in the ABL.

Alaska, meanwhile, picked San Sebastian forward and NCAA MVP Calvin Abueva for the second pick.

Fil-American Alex Mallari, who played with Big Chill in the PBA D-League, was a surprise third pick, also by Petron.

Meralco Bolts, with the fourth pick, selected the high-flying Fil-American Cliff Hodge from the NLEX Road Warriors.

Far Eastern University standout and a former Smart Gilas member, Aldrech Ramos—a forward who has a touch from the perimeter—rose as the fifth pick by Barako Bull Energy.

Another Road Warrior, Fil-American Chris Ellis, was the choice to bolster the frontline of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel for the sixth pick.

Chris Tiu, one of the favorites to get drafted in the first round, was selected by the recent champion Rain or Shine as the seventh pick.

Keith Jensen, who also played for Big Chill, was Ginebra’s eight pick.

Newcomer Global Port Batang Pier, recently granted entry to the PBA, wrapped up the first round with the last two picks.

The Baytang Pier acquired the ninth pick via a trade with the B-Meg Llamados, who shipped Val Acuna and the pick in exchange for Sean Anthony.

Vic Manuel, the PBA D-League Best Player of the Conference, was chosen at No. 9 while Jason Deuchtman came in next at 10.

The second round of the drafting is underway at posting time.