After his absence from the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) starting earlier this month, basketball player LA Tenorio, who has been playing for the Barangay Ginebra for almost two decades now, revealed he has been diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. The point guard, dubbed on his team as “The Tinyente,” released a statement on his health condition on the PBA’s official website last March 21, Tuesday.

LA started off the news by asking for understanding from the public and his colleagues for not disclosing his condition right away. He wrote, “I would like to issue a statement about my health status by firstly apologizing to my teammates, some coaches, the PBA, the fans, the media and even some friends. As most of you are aware I have been nursing a minor injury since the Finals last January. I used that as the reason for my sudden absence. My sincerest apologies to all.

“With my profession in sports tied in health and entertainment, it will be very difficult to keep the real reason a secret any longer and will only lead to unnecessary gossips, fake news & misinterpretations.”

The 38-year-old athlete also shared details on his health and his approach to being optimistic about his treatment. “I was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. The initial testing three weeks ago led me to instantly miss practices and games. I have completed my surgery last week and will soon undergo treatment for the next few months.

“I have given not only 17 full years to the PBA, but have dedicated my whole life to basketball. I have committed my body and health for the love of the game. It has been my passion and love. Sadly, there are things beyond one's control. But with my FAITH, I am lifting everything to God now and I believe there is a higher purpose as I go through this part of my life. I am not yet retiring from the game I love, and with the help of the best doctors in the Philippines and Singapore, I BELIEVE I can touch a basketball once more and return stronger.”

The veteran baller ended his statement requesting for everyone to be respectful of his family in this challenging time.

“Lastly, to all, as much as I greatly appreciate everyone's well-wishes and messages of support and prayers - for my children's well-being, in this social media and internet era, I am humbly asking everyone's respect for my family to go through this journey privately and discreetly as much as possible. Together with my family and loved ones, you are all my strength, inspiration and what drives me to be the best person I can ever be, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I will see everyone very, very soon. Thank you and God bless,” he added.

In an earlier post, LA shared just how grateful he was for the gift of the game and his family, after winning his 8th championship last January.

He wrote, “No championship is the same. The Winning feeling never gets old. With this one, in particular, family sacrifices, injuries, pain and not to mention, the first one without my fellow co-veteran teamates like @47markcaguioa and @jdv38 , as well as first against a foreign team... all together gave this one a different journey and a different fight, physically, mentally and emotionally.. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

“Just a different sense of gratitude. Truly grateful and blessed to have a family who has been really supportive from day one. I always draw my strength from you guys. ❤️😘 I dedicate this championship once again to you guys! I Love you 😘❤️ X8🏆 #TenorioFamily #NSD”

After starting his professional basketball career in the PBA in 2006, LA has already won eight PBA championships,and is a four-time Finals Most Valuable Player awardee. Last June 2022, he played in his 700th game, giving him the distinction of having the most consecutive games played for a PBA player.