(JOURNAL NEWS) SENATOR Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has filed a resolution to commend and congratulate the Gilas Pilipinas men’s national basketball team for their “outstanding achievement” in winning the gold medal at the recently-concluded 32nd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The national basketball team’s remarkable performance in the biennial multi-sport event brought back the Philippines’ championship status, marking a triumphant comeback after a “three-decade winning streak” since 1991.
“Their momentous accomplishment in the international tournament deserves commendation and recognition from the Philippine Senate,” said Estrada.
He highlighted that Gilas Pilipinas’ victory contributed to the 56 out of 58 gold medals earned by the entire Philippine delegation at the Phnom Penh edition of the regional sports event, which saw the participation of 11 Southeast Asian countries.
The Gilas Pilipinas men’s team powered through Cambodia’s homecourt advantage, a painful loss during the preliminary round, and the host country’s several naturalized players to dominate and rule the sport.
Gilas Pilipinas also outplayed Indonesia in the semi-finals to dethrone the defending champions and clinch a spot in the finals.
This triumph by the national basketball team secured the Philippines’ 19th championship title in the sport since 1977, reaffirming the country’s position as a “basketball powerhouse” in the region following their second-place finish in the 31st SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam.
“Gilas Pilipinas men’s national basketball team exemplified discipline, resilience, and perseverance –positive values that their fellow athletes and the younger generation can emulate. Their success story showcased the indomitable Filipino spirit and world-class caliber, bringing pride, joy, and honor to a nation that passionately embraces basketball,” said Estrada.