Just like a long lost son, Eric Menk was welcomed by the PBA community with open arms as he finally got a Department of Justice affirmation of his Filipino citizenship, clearing the way for his return stint in the country’s premier pro league. Menk’s Tanduay teammates and even players of the other teams, his coach and coaches of the rival ballclubs and league officials were all happy he’ll be back in the PBA soon, believing he deserves accorded Filipino citizenship and thinking he’ll be a big asset to the league.
"We’re glad that Eric has obtained his papers from the DOJ. Though it’s unfortunate that he wasn’t able to play against Purefoods Friday, we are sure that the league, Tanduay and Menk himself can look to the future with optimism," said acting PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios, who extended a big helping hand in resolving the Fil-Am cager’s problem with the DOJ.
Coaches of the other teams expect Tanduay to become an instant power again but they have no complaint as they themselves welcome the return of Menk, who they believe will raise the standard of play and competition in the league.
"I’m happy for him because he really deserves to play again in the PBA. His return will not only be good for Tanduay but the whole league. He brings out a lot of class. He’s one player who woke up the local players, making them realize how a professional player should play," said Shell coach Perry Ronquillo.
"Although this is to our disadvantage, we welcome his return. Eric is well-loved by his teammates and even players of the other teams because of his great work ethic," Ronquillo added.
"No doubt, this is good news for Tanduay and the PBA. Eric will make Tanduay a strong team again and he’ll be an added attraction the league can offer to its fans," said Ginebra coach Allan Caidic.
Tanduay coach Derrick Pumaren felt bad he couldn’t play Menk Friday but he’s looking forward to the third conference when the 6-foot-6 slotman dons Tanduay’s red and gold jersey again.
"Eric Menk’s return is a big boost to us. He will definitely be a big help because with him, we’ll have a legitimate inside threat," said Pumaren.
Ronquillo thought even more. He said: "Tanduay is loaded now in all positions. They have Dindo Pumaren at the point, Jeffrey Cariaso and Dondon Hontiveros at two spot then Eric Menk, Bonel Balingit, Bong Hawkins and Noli Locsin as their big men. Menk gives them a legitimate threat because he’s a big man who can play halfcourt game and can finish (fastbreak plays), unlike Hawkins and Locsin who are more of halfcourt-game players."
Caidic foresees Menk becoming not only Tanduay’s prime asset in the PBA but also a national treasure in the quadrennial Asian Games as well.
"We’ll have a better chance of winning the Asian Games next year. Just imagine a national team which has Eric Menk, Asi Taulava, Danny Ildefonso and Danny Seigle in the lineup," said Caidic, a veteran of four Asiad wars.