The one-on-one deal has already been authorized by the PBA trade committee and has been shared on Monday afternoon.

Santos’ departure from the Beermen was a surprise since he had been a key part of the SMC flagship franchise’s success since joining in 2009, earning nine championships with the team, including five consecutive Philippine Cup victories from 2015 to 2019.

The 40-year-old former Beermen pillar, Santos bagged the MVP award in 2013 before teammate June Mar Fajardo started his reign with six MVP championships in a row.

Santos also won two Finals MVP with Beermen in 2011 and 2015 in the Governor’s Cup title series, and Philippine Cup, respectively. 

The SMC eventually broke its ‘Death 5’ by bringing in Manuel and letting go of its longstanding core, with Santos not being able to retire with the team.

Meanwhile, the ‘Muscle Man’ Manuel was dealing and switching teams for the third time in this year alone.

During the offseason, Alaska sent the 34-year-old veteran forward to Phoenix. Then, only last week, he was traded in a deal that also included veteran forward Sean Anthony. And now, he was traded for San Miguel once again.