Amidst their fierce battle for the PBA Philippine Cup crown, the San Miguel Beermen and Meralco Bolts have come together to show their unwavering support for Filipino athletes heading to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
Before Game Four at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, players from both teams donned Philippine Olympian-themed shirts featuring the names of the country’s Olympians on the back.
This heartwarming gesture highlighted their solidarity and encouragement for Team Pilipinas in their quest for Olympic glory.
(C) PBA Images
“Suportado ng PBA ang bawat atletang Pilipino at umaasa tayo na kasama natin ang mga fans sa pagsuporta sa mga atleta nating lalaban sa Paris 2024,” said PBA commissioner Willie Marcial, emphasizing the league’s commitment to supporting Filipino athletes.
As part of the league’s Independence Day celebration, the PBA also honored the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Two hundred uniformed personnel from the AFP and PNP were welcomed as special guests at the Big Dome.
(C) PBA Images
“Gusto po nating bigyan ng pagkilala at pagpupugay ang ating mga pulis at sundalo! Sila ang nagsisilbing tanggulan ng ating kalayaan, at nag-aalay ng kanilang buhay para sa kapayapaan at kaligtasan ng bawat Pilipino,” Commissioner Marcial added.
Fifteen Filipino athletes, led by pole vaulter EJ Obiena and gymnast Carlos Yulo, have already qualified for Paris 2024, aiming to bring more Olympic medals home.
More athletes, including the Gilas Pilipinas basketball team, hope to join them.
Gilas Pilipinas will compete in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia, from July 2 to 7, seeking to secure their place in the prestigious international event.
