Shenzhen: The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has expressed its appreciation to Philippine Sports Commission Chairperson Patrick Gregorio for supporting the Gilas Pilipinas Women competing at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2025 in Shenzhen, China. The PSC chief met with FIBA officials to discuss the Philippines' hosting of the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2027.
According to Philippines News Agency, the support from Chairman Gregorio was warmly acknowledged by SBP president Al Panlilio. "We appreciate the support from Chairman Gregorio in China. This is his first official trip abroad and the SBP is honored by his presence and his help especially about the hosting of the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2027," Panlilio stated in a press release.
During his visit, Gregorio, along with SBP executive director Ericka Dy, engaged in discussions with FIBA secretary general Andreas Zagklis, FIBA Asia president Dr. K Govindaraj, and Executive Director Hagop Khajirian. Dy emphasized Gregorio's interest in enhancing the support for women's basketball. "He wanted to know how the PSC can help not just in the hosting of the event but also on what can be done to further invest in women's basketball. He saw the talent and the competitive fire from our athletes here and wants to know how the PSC can help drive the program forward," Dy remarked.
The discussions also extended to other potential events that the Philippines could host in the future. Gregorio highlighted the nationwide impact of basketball in the Philippines and the benefits of hosting more FIBA events. "We know of the nationwide impact of basketball in the Philippines. And my hope is that more FIBA events can be held in our country, not just in Manila but in other regions because this will help boost sports tourism and also enhance sports diplomacy. SBP has hosted successful FIBA events in Clark and San Fernando, Pampanga and it will be good to give other regions and provinces that same opportunity as well," Gregorio stated.
Gregorio also used his time in China to gain a deeper understanding of FIBA's eligibility rules, particularly concerning Filipinos in sports globally. He acknowledged the contributions of athletes who represent the Philippines despite not having obtained a Philippine passport before turning 16. "We know that there are many athletes all over the world who proudly represent the Philippines even if some of them may have not gotten a Philippine passport yet before they turned 16. Some of them even represent us in the Olympics. I am with the SBP in finding better solutions for Filipinos who have clear lineage to represent the country," he added.
