Player Profile Series: The Filipino Pool Veteran, Ramil Gallego

Name: Ramil Gallego 

Nickname: "Bebeng"

Birthday: September 21, 1966

Age: 59

Hometown: Bacolod City, Negos Occidental, Philippines 

Achievements: 

2006 Bangkok Leg Champion, San Miguel Asian 9-Ball Tour:  

2008 Japan Open 9-Ball Champion: 

2008 Manny Villar Cup Bulacan Leg Winner: 

2008 All Japan 14.1 Championship Winner: 

Ramil Gallego is one of the Philippines' most respected professional pool players, known for his skill, composure, and international presence—particularly in Asia.

A seasoned competitor, Gallego has represented the Philippines in numerous tournaments abroad, with a strong focus on the Japanese billiards circuit. Filipino fans began to recognize him more widely during his appearances in the Motolite International Tournament (won by Francisco Bustamante) and the Rising Stars Tournament (won by Edgar Acaba).

Over the years, Gallego has proudly carried the Philippine flag in competitions overseas, with Japan being one of his most frequent battlegrounds. He is fluent in Japanese and often serves as a translator for fellow Pinoy players during events.

One of his most memorable career moments came on July 28, 2008, when the then 41-year-old Gallego delivered a stunning performance at the Manny Villar Cup Bulacan leg, held at the Event Center of SM City Marilao. He edged out Francisco Bustamante in the semifinals, 10–9, and went on to defeat Carlo Biado, 11–7, in the finals to secure the championship.

He has accumulated a number of tournament victories, mostly across Asia. His most notable international title came in 2006, when he won the Bangkok leg of the WPA Asian Nine-ball Tour, defeating Hong Kong’s Au Chi-wai in a remarkable comeback.

Gallego triumphed over Taiwan’s Li-wen Ro with a 9–3 victory in the finals. To reach the final, he defeated fellow Filipino Efren “Bata” Reyes (9–2) in the quarterfinals and Japan’s Tanaka Masaki (9–3) in the semifinals. This victory marked a significant achievement in his career.

He also secured the title by defeating Hong Kong’s Au Chi-wai in the championship round, further demonstrating his prowess on the international stage.

Gallego clinched the title in this prestigious event, solidifying his reputation in the global pool community.

Now in his veteran years, Gallego continues to be a powerful presence in the sport and a role model to many up-and-coming Filipino cue artists.