Where is 'Junior Jaworski' Onchie dela Cruz now?

Known as 'Junior Jaworski' before in the PBA, Onchie dela Cruz made his own name in the league from 1984 to 1994. 

However, after his stint in the professional league, Dela Cruz tried his luck abroad and took on several jobs before returning to the country.

Now, he is a security staff in Pasig City.

"Hindi ko naman ikinahihiya 'yung trabaho ko, gater o security. Eh kahit paano, nakakaraos," Dela Cruz shared in an episode of Reporter's Notebook. "Pagka-ano, nagba-buy and sell din ako 'pagka kaya ko yung unit na binebenta, binibili ko."

The former pro player is now living with one of his children and is separated from his wife.

If Dela Cruz regrets one thing, it is not saving for his future.

"Kasi pagkabumaba ang laro nyo, ite-trade na kayo kung kani-kanino. Ganun ang nangyari sa akin," he said. "Nahirapan ako. Wala akong ano. Hindi ko naisip mag-ipon."

In September 2022, House Bill 5160 or the Professional Filipino Athletes Retirement, Health Care and Death Benefits Act of 2021 was filed to give benefits to retired professional athletes who gave the country international recognition. However, it is still pending at the committee level.

Atty. Omar Benitez of the boxing division of the Games and Amusements Board said there have been efforts through the legislative body to give benefits for the welfare of champions and other athletes in professional sports when they get injured or disabled.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News