In last season’s PBA Governors’ Cup, former league Most Valuable Player Arwind Santos emerged as a top scorer, rebounder and leader in blocks, averaging 17.3 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks.

His profile includes being a nine-time PBA champion, a nine-time league Mythical First Team member, and a seven-time All-Defensive Team member all before the age of 40.

But what’s Santos secret to staying power?

For Santos, his lovely better half, Ivette Iza Gavieres, was a big part of his playing longevity.

“Magaling lang talaga mag-alaga si misis,” Santos wrote in a text message to ABS-CBN News.

Now turning 41 on June 10, Santos also attributes the discipline he showed through the years as the biggest reason why he stays in tip-top shape.

His advanced age wasn’t a hindrance competing, as he even outduelled players who are younger, bigger and faster than him.

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“Magaling rin ako mag-alaga ng katawan. Hindi ako umiinom ng alak, hindi naninigarilyo at bihira ring magpuyat,” added Santos. “Parati rin akong nagpapakundisyon.”

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With Santos staying in deadly form, he was able to help NorthPort Batang Pier be competitive last season.

The 6-foot-4, “King Tamaraw”, who led Far Eastern University to three UAAP championships, is hoping to see the Batang Pier’s full potential come the league’s new season with a healthier and better Robert Bolick, a strong candidate for the Most Valuable Player award; incoming sophomores Jamie Malonzo and Troy Rike; veteran swing man Kevin Ferrer; and sixth overall rookie pick JM Calma providing youth, energy and athleticism to the NorthPort side.