FOR giving the country its first-ever podium finish in the prestigious continental tournament and elevating the Philippines’ standing in international basketball, Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada is seeking a Senate commendation for the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s team for winning the historic silver medal in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup held in Singapore from April 1 to 5.
“This is a breakthrough moment for Philippine basketball. Our Gilas Women showed the heart of a true Filipina warrior — matapang, determinado, at hindi sumusuko,” Estrada said.
In filing Senate Resolution No. 363, Estrada said the national women’s basketball team deserves commendation from the Senate for its outstanding accomplishment, which not only further cements the country’s standing as one of the best-performing basketball nations in the region, but also highlights the admirable traits of Filipinos before the international community.
Bannered by standout players Cheska Lorraine Apag, Afril Bernardino, Mikka Cacho, and Kacey dela Rosa, the Gilas Pilipinas Women delivered a spirited campaign against Asia’s basketball powerhouses. The squad stunned Mongolia in the quarterfinals, edged Japan in a thrilling semifinal, and secured the silver medal after a valiant stand against defending champion Australia.
Bernardino’s stellar performance earned her a spot in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup Women’s Team 2026, further cementing her legacy as an iconic figure in Filipino women’s basketball.
Despite falling short in the championship game, their silver medal finish stands as the country’s best performance in the tournament — surpassing last year’s fourth-place finish and signaling the Philippines’ rising prominence in 3×3 basketball.
“Their victory goes beyond medals,” Estrada emphasized. “It inspires a new generation of Filipino athletes. Patunay ito na kayang makipagsabayan ng Filipina sa pinakamagagaling sa mundo.”
The Senate resolution underscores the team’s contribution to elevating the country’s reputation in international sports and showcasing the Filipino spirit on the global stage.