Meralco will miss the veteran leadership of Reynel Hugnatan as it wraps up its elimination-round campaign in the PBA Philippine Cup.

Hugnatan left the semi-bubble in Bacolor, Pampanga to attend the wake of his mother in Negros Occidental.

“Our prayers are with him and his family,” Meralco head coach Norman Black said of Hugnatan.

Currently at second place with a 7-2 card, Meralco has two shots at securing a twice-to-beat quarterfinal incentive as it tangles with NLEX on Wednesday, September 22, and Barangay Ginebra the following day.

Meralco needs just one win to edge Magnolia – which totes an 8-3 record – for the playoff bonus by virtue of winning their elimination-round match.

Hugnatan is expected to be back in the weekend for the quarterfinals.

Although the oldest in the team at 42 years old, Hugnatan continues to be a key contributor for Meralco, averaging 10.7 points and 4 rebounds in nine games this conference. – Rappler.com