The 7-foot Feihl, the 1994 PBA top pick, did not personally apply for the PBL amnesty program for ex-pro but forwarded his application to AMA Computer College consultant Ted Magno.

"Feihl will be a welcome addition to the PBL and perhaps, the national team," said PBL commissioner Yeng Guiao. "We are glad to have provided him a venue to display his talent."

It was Feihl's manager, Nonie Mediarito, who explored the possibility of his talent's comeback in the PBL after negotations with Gordon Gins (formerly Ginebra) bogged down.

Feihl, whose contract expired last December, asked for a new monthly stipend in the vicinity of the PBA maximum salary cap of P500,000 - a move seen as a ploy to get out of Ginebra and from the shadows of sophomore Marlou Aquino.

But the La TondeÄna management made a counter offer of P7.2 million for a three-year contract equialent to a monthly pay of P200,000, which Feihl refused to accept despite the intercession of the PBA office.

Because of this, Feihl would have to sit out the whole season before he becomes a restricted free agent and entertain offers from other teams.

Feihl's application brought the number of hopefuls to 21. Beating the deadline Monday were Pableo Canoneo, Alejandro Paguinto, Joseph Valdez, Dindo Pastor, Johnedel Cardel, Manny Victorino, Juancho Estrada, Bobby Jose, Ruben dela Rosa, Matthews Makalintal and Vincent Calip.

Those who applied earlier were Allan Garrido, Cris Bade, Enrico Gascon, Bong Solomon, Jack Santiago, Pat Codinera and Andy de Guzman. -JEAN MALANUM