BUILT FOR COMMAND: MJ Raymundo's Warpath to Glory

A General is expected to be relentless, tactical, and strong-willed. This is the exact identity MJ Raymundo gives his best to emulate as he rises to be one of Emilio Aguinaldo College’s 5-star Generals of the future.

MJ’s basketball journey began as a childhood passion in Valenzuela. Making a DIY ball from crumpled papers and a makeshift ring out of tin cans, he was that kid who grew up falling in love with the sport right away. Upon moving to Bulacan, he entered the grind of “dayo” basketball, traveling from court to court in search of competition. This kind of game play became training grounds that built the character he continues to strengthen today.

As his game progressed, MJ took a chance by trying out for the Muntinlupa Cagers but due to being young, he was advised to take the college route. First stop? JRU Heavy Bombers. Practicing with the Blue and Gold even before his rookie season took flight, he grasped everything he could learn as he prepared to show out once he gets under the bright lights. Former head tactitian Coach Louie Gonzales gave MJ a season to breakthrough averaging 9.67 points, 5.17 boards, 3.28 dimes, and 1.56 steals per game last NCAA Season 100. However, Gonzales’ departure from the Mandaluyong-based squad made MJ explore other options. Together with his brother, Coach Glenn Capacio almost brought the duo to the NU Bulldogs. But after every detour, every delay, and every road that seemed to lead elsewhere, MJ Raymundo finally arrived where he was meant to be. They found a new home and new family in Emilio Aguinaldo College. From the start, MJ felt the immediate belief they had in what he can bring to the table. He even vividly recalls Coach Jerson Cabiltes telling him he was a priority recruit for the program and he took it to himself to make sure that he will be worth all the precedence.

In the recent Pinoyliga Next Man Cup Season 5, MJ elevated his game to another level and made history as the tournament’s first ever single season MVP, Finals MVP, Mythical 5, and Defensive Player of the Year. To say that he played an impressive season would be an understatement. Averaging 22.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.66 assists, 4.77 steals, MJ put on a show and went at it every single time. While he admitted the awards were fulfilling, especially knowing the level he had performed at, he never allowed the recognition to distract him. Bigger goals remained ahead. Instead, the honors only boosted his confidence and deepened his gratitude for the trust continuously given to him by the team. Beyond the individual success, one of MJ’s proudest moments is sharing the floor with his brother, Harvae. For him, every game becomes more meaningful knowing they get to compete side by side for EAC, working towards the same goals. MJ also points to the people behind the scenes who continue to fuel the team’s growth. He credits Dr. Lorenzo Lorenzo, Coach Noy Catalan, and Coach Jerson for constantly motivating the squad and keeping them focused.

Now, with another championship secured, the focus shifts once again. The next step is building chemistry with Team A, learning from every game, and taking the journey one battle at a time. And as EAC continues its pursuit of bigger stages and greater stakes, one thing remains clear. With MJ Raymundo leading the charge, the Generals will always have someone built for command.