The 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines was one of the 20,000 people in attendance for Gilas Pilipinas’ 2016 FIBA OQT opener.
Rodrigo Duterte, clad in a simple brown polo and maong jeans, showed his full support to the National Team who face a giant in the world basketball scene, France.
The Davaoeño made his way to center court prior to the official tip-off and was showered by applause by the Filipinos in attendance. After raising his fist, the fist that had made him an icon to the masses, the President threw the ceremonial toss and shook hands with all the players on the court, including Tony Parker.
During the 2013 FIBA Asia Championships, the 15th President of the Republic Noynoy Aquino had attended the finals showdown between Gilas Pilipinas and eventual champions Iran.
