Nine-time PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) June Mar Fajardo has officially retired from international basketball, ending a 13-year Gilas Pilipinas career that included three FIBA World Cup appearances.

The 36-year-old center announced his decision Sunday after helping the Philippines defeat Iran, 68-56, in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers Window 4 at Mall of Asia Arena.

Fajardo had previously hinted at retiring from Gilas before Window 4. He initially planned to step away after Window 3 in July but reconsidered after national team coach Tim Cone asked him to remain with the squad for the next window.

His final Gilas appearance ended with six points and two rebounds in seven minutes.

Unlike Japeth Aguilar's retirement, no formal ceremony was held for Fajardo. Instead, his teammates handed him the game ball during the team's huddle at center court as the home crowd at Mall of Asia Arena chanted "M-V-P."

"I see a really bright future for the national team," Fajardo said.

Fajardo made his national team debut at the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship and went on to represent the Philippines in the 2014, 2019 and 2023 FIBA World Cups.

He also competed for Gilas Pilipinas in the Asian Games, Southeast Asian Games and other international competitions throughout his career.

Fajardo's departure marks the end of one of the longest-running national team careers among the Philippines' current generation of players.

After more than a decade of answering the call to represent the country, the San Miguel Beermen star leaves Gilas with a career highlighted by major international tournaments and years of service to the national team.