Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio is getting the support and love he needs in his Gilas Pilipinas seniors debut at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games here.
Aside from his family and fans, that support comes from his girlfriend — Philippine obstacle course team star Kaizen Dela Serna.
Dela Serna is a proven SEA Games medalist, having won gold and silver in the 2019 (Manila) and 2023 (Phnom Penh) editions of the biennial meet.
With no obstacle course event in this year’s Games, Dela Serna had planned to compete in sport climbing, but a shoulder injury forced her to skip the 10-nation regional competition.
“I’m so proud of him. It’s his first SEA Games, and we’re so excited to watch him. I know how hard he’s been working for this so we’re all super proud of him,” Dela Serna said of her boyfriend, the Blackwater rookie drafted No. 3 overall in the last PBA Draft. “Actually, sayang nga because I was supposed to be competing sa SEA Games, not for obstacle, but I also qualified for climbing.
“So, sana climbing ang SEA Games stint ko this year but then unfortunately I’m injured. We went all the way here to support Dalph and I’m also supporting my sister (Kaikaku) because she’s competing in fencing,” added the 23-year-old.
After previously suiting up for Gilas Boys, the 6-foot-1 Panopio is relishing the opportunity to help the Norman Black-mentored Philippine five in the men’s basketball tournament.
“Hell of an experience, you know, na maging teammates ang great players and the opportunity that I could never, like, replace or give away,” the 25-year-old Panopio said. “I mean, I’m so thankful to be in this position right now.
“Nagpapasalamat ako kay boss Dioceldo (Sy, Bossing owner), coach Jeff (Cariaso), and coach Norman for giving me this opportunity.”
