Player Profile Series: The iconic Francisco "Django" Bustamante
Francisco “Django” Bustamante is now in his twilight years and ready to pass the torch to the country’s rising billiards talents, including Rubilen Amit and Chezka Centeno, with whom he shared the pool table in a friendly doubles match.
Although he never completed his studies, his dedication, determination, and passion for the sport he loved brought him to the pinnacle of success. He helped his family earn a living to survive. His father made a living by building toilets and planting rice, and Bustamante also worked alongside him. He spent time in his sister's pool hall, racking and spotting balls on the tables, and practiced alone after the hall had closed.
As one of the pioneers who helped elevate billiards to one of the most beloved sports in the Philippines, Bustamante has encouraged aspiring players to persevere, train diligently, and avoid vices that could derail their potential.
“Many young people are playing now, especially in Cebu, where I think there are more young players than anywhere else. But they should finish their studies first before focusing on billiards. If they truly want to excel, they need to be disciplined, practice tirelessly, and stay away from drugs,” Bustamante said.
He may no longer be at the peak of his playing days, but his legacy remains unparalleled. His passion for the sport is still strong, now channeled into mentoring the next generation of Filipino billiards stars.
He has not lost his magic, effortlessly showcasing the trick shots that once made him a global icon of the sport—especially last February, when he continued to cement his status as one of the greatest players in billiards history.
