MANILA, Philippines -- Junel Mendiola, who played for Purefoods' championship team in the 2002 Governors' Cup, passed away on Tuesday, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) announced. He was 45.

Mendiola was diagnosed with cancer of the muscles six months ago and recently underwent lung surgery. Last Monday, he was transferred from the intensive care unit to a regular room at the Cardinal Santos Medical Center.

His passing, just when it looked like he was on the road to recovery, was a shock to the PBA family.

"Nagulat ako noong nakarating sa akin 'yung balita, kasi nga kausap ko pa 'yung asawa niya. Kahit paano, nagpaabot ng kaunting halaga 'yung liga para sa kanya," PBA commissioner Willie Marcial said.

Mendiola played college basketball for the Philippine School of Business Administration, and was part of the national team that won the gold medal in the 2001 Southeast Asian Games.

He played just one season in the PBA, averaging 1.4 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists.

Ryan Gregorio, who coached Purefoods to the 2002 Governors' Cup crown, had good memories of Mendiola.

"He was a contributor every time he stepped inside the court," he said, as quoted by the PBA website. "He was also a positive energy in our practices. He embraced his role so well."

For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website.