MANILA, Philippines – In the current PBA Philippine Cup, Japeth Aguilar has assumed a new and crucial role with Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. The 38-year-old big man, who was once largely recognized for his agility and function as a backup to other players in the Ginebra frontcourt, is now a crucial player and a veteran presence at the center of the team’s leadership.

Ginebra required a steady hand and an experienced voice to lead a fresh core of players as former team stalwarts LA Tenorio and Jared Dillinger were no longer with the squad. Having spent more than ten years with the franchise, Aguilar has fully accepted this task. He is more than simply an outspoken leader in the locker room; he has used his on-court play to influence his teammates.

At the PhilSports Arena, he demonstrated his leadership most clearly during Ginebra’s close victory over the Blackwater Bossing, 101-99. In the last minute of that game, Aguilar made the game-winning basket, a clutch corner jumper. He ended with six rebounds, two assists, and a team-high 22 points, including nine in the pivotal fourth quarter. His timely efforts put Ginebra in a tie with the San Miguel Beermen in the rankings and helped them win three in a row. Their record now stands at 5–2.

Tim Cone, the head coach, recognized Aguilar’s increased responsibilities. Aguilar frequently played behind strong big men like Christian Standhardinger or Greg Slaughter in past seasons. He serves as both a rim protector and a scorer, making him the mainstay of the frontcourt today. Cone saw this change as Aguilar “stepping out of the shadows,” acknowledging that he has now established himself as the team’s most dependable and experienced inside player.

Aguilar has steadily developed into this position. He is not one to dominate meetings with his voice or give orders loudly; instead, he is known for his kind manner. He leads by example instead, exhibiting steadiness, poise, and a strong work ethic. He tries to keep a cheerful and supportive demeanor, especially around younger players, as he has grown more conscious of the effects of his body language and on-court conduct. For Aguilar, being a leader is more than simply playing well; it’s also about how he handles hardship, interacts with people in stressful situations, and boosts their self-esteem.

He added 24 points to RJ Abarrientos’ 25-point explosion in Ginebra’s previous 119–112 victory over Phoenix Super LPG, demonstrating his impact. That match signaled Ginebra’s increasing form and gave them their first conference back-to-back winning streak. As Ginebra adjusts to the loss of some of its more seasoned leaders, Aguilar’s steady scoring and interior defense have been essential in providing the team with the consistency and balance it needs.

Aguilar has never been one to chase attention, but he is aware of the duty that now falls on him. He knows that every move he makes sets a standard for the team because he is one of the league’s oldest and most seasoned players. Aguilar is aware that his duty goes well beyond the box score, whether it is maintaining composure under pressure or offering support when things are tough.

Aguilar’s calm professionalism has long been appreciated by Coach Cone, who has stated his faith in his ability to guide the squad through its present transition. Aguilar’s stability is essential because Ginebra is a mix of seasoned players and up-and-coming players like Abarrientos, Jeremiah Gray, and Von Pessumal. He acts as a mentor while maintaining a high level of competition, bridging the gap between the past and the future.

Aguilar has also shown remarkable resilience. He still puts in a lot of time and produces effectively in spite of his advanced age. Even while he may not be as athletic as he once was, his knowledge of the game, defensive instincts, and astute placement have kept him extremely productive. He plays within the system, chooses his spots well, and contributes on both ends in a timely manner.

Ginebra will try to maintain its spot in the top four as the Philippine Cup moves into its second half in order to guarantee the twice-to-beat advantage in the playoffs.