One of Team Philippines’ most impressive and hard-fought victories in the 33rd Southeast Games came courtesy of Gilas Pilipinas Women.
The triumph was all the more remarkable considering the trials and tribulations the team had to overcome.
It was no surprise that long-time basketball patron Caesar Wongchuking was over the moon following Pat Aquino-led Gilas Women’s gold-winning performance against the host nation.
“Galing ni Pat, the program he established for years and the sacrifices he made for the country is finally paying good dividends,” said Wongchuking, who has been supporting Aquino’s team for the longest time.
(C) POC Pool
Beyond reclaiming its regional dominance, Gilas Women also secured its Division A status in the FIBA Asia Cup with a hard-fought 73-70 win over Lebanon in their group phase matchup.
That victory proved crucial, earning Gilas Women a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament, which will be held in Villeurbanne, France, this March.
In recognition of their remarkable performance last year, the team was honored last Friday at Mt. Fuji Restaurant inside the Manila Polo Club.
The event was a double celebration, as Wongchuking also threw a party for members of the Acrocity/MEC team, who captured a record 15th title in the Xavier Alumni Basketball League.
“I hope they could make it to the World Cup, although it’s quite a tough mission,” added Wongchuking, who chairs the Czark Mak Group of Companies, developer of Bulacan’s newest commercial, industrial, and lifestyle township, Acrocity.
Last year, Wongchuking also helped bankroll the Negros Basketball Association Invitational Tournament, an event that brought together prominent players from Negros who had once played in major collegiate and amateur leagues, and eventually in the PBA.
