Meralco still searching for import as Commissioner’s Cup opener nears

Time is ticking for Meralco as the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup approaches, yet one key piece of its roster puzzle remains unresolved.

With only 12 days left before the Bolts open their campaign, the team has yet to officially name its import, leaving a notable vacancy in the lineup released by the franchise on Friday.

The absence of a designated reinforcement raised eyebrows, especially since Puerto Rican big man Ismael Romero had long been linked to the role. Romero had been working with the team during its stint in the East Asia Super League, fueling speculation that he would carry the import duties once the conference begins.

But uncertainty surrounding Romero’s situation may have complicated those plans.

The 6-foot-8 forward recently drew attention for the wrong reasons during the Dubai International Basketball Championship in January while playing for Al Ahli Tripoli. In a heated moment during a game, Romero kicked former PBA player Nick Demusis, sparking controversy. The incident has lingered in basketball circles, and Romero has yet to publicly apologize.

Whether Meralco ultimately sticks with Romero or looks elsewhere for a reinforcement remains to be seen as the countdown to the conference continues.

While the import slot remains undecided, the Bolts have already finalized much of their local core, including several players who will be making their PBA debuts with the team. 

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Jason Brickman and Vince Magbuhos are set to suit up for Meralco after completing their commitments in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League last year. Their arrival adds fresh playmaking and depth to a roster eager to make a deeper run in the mid-season conference.

Veteran guard Chris Newsome is expected to spearhead Meralco’s campaign after another strong season, supported by a familiar cast that includes Aaron Black, Chris Banchero, Cliff Hodge, and Anjo Caram.

Also returning to the fold are Bong Quinto, Raymond Almazan, Allein Maliksi, Jansen Rios, Kyle Pascual, Brandon Bates, and CJ Cansino, while newly acquired forward Javee Mocon strengthens the team’s frontcourt rotation.

The Bolts are looking to bounce back after bowing out in the quarterfinals of last year’s Commissioner’s Cup, and the organization hopes the current lineup can push the team deeper into the playoffs this time around.

Meralco begins its campaign on March 18 against the Converge FiberXers at the Ynares Center, by which time the Bolts will need to have their import situation settled.

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