Beermen re-sign Von Pessumal and Billy Mamaril, sign free agent Bam Gamalinda

San Miguel has moved on to fortifying its roster for the upcoming All-Filipino battles just days after the devastating news that main man June Mar Fajardo won’t be available for the season-opening conference due to a fractured right tibia.

With the 5-time PBA Most Valuable Player out of the equation coupled by the retirement of fellow big man Yancy de Ocampo, the Beermen are now in dire need of a low post presence and have started to restock their center position by locking up Billy Mamaril to a new deal.

The 6-foot-6 Mamaril, who was selected by Magnolia (then Purefoods) with the 6th overall pick in the 2003 draft, will be entering his 18th season in the league and 3rd with the flagship team of the SMC group.

Also coming to terms with the team is sharp-shooter Von Pessumal. The 26-year old former Gilas cadet was signed to a longer deal this time around. He will be expected to contribute more on the offensive end with the team aiming to put together a concerted effort in its mission to defend the Philippine Cup crown sans their premier player.

Bam Gamalinda, who was left unsigned by Magnolia, became the third free agent to land a deal with the Beermen following the earlier signing of guards Wendell Comboy and Gelo Alolino.

The 33-year old Gamalinda will be suiting up for his 5th team in the league after earlier stints with Meralco, TNT, and Blackwater and the Hotshots.