MANILA, Philippines — Home of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez heaped praises for Gilas Pilipinas after pulling an upset in opposition to world no. 6 Latvia within the 2024 FIBA Males’s Olympic Qualifying Event (OQT).
Romualdez in a press release on Thursday stated that Gilas’ victory within the OQT is proof of the Filipino’s unwavering spirit and dedication to their craft.
“It’s with nice delight and heartfelt congratulations that I commend Gilas Pilipinas for his or her historic victory in opposition to Latvia in an official FIBA match. This triumph, ending a 64-year drought of wins in opposition to European groups, is obvious proof of the unwavering spirit, dedication, and perseverance of our nationwide basketball crew,” he stated.
“Hindi lamang ito simpleng panalo sa scoreboard, kundi isang panalo para sa puso ng bawat atletang nangangarap na irepresent ang Pilipinas sa pandaigdigang kompetisyon. Nagsisilbi itong inspirasyon sa maraming Pilipino na magpursige dahil iba ang talento ng mga Pilipino,” he added.
(This isn’t only a win on the scoreboard, but in addition a win for the guts of all athletes hoping to symbolize the Philippines in worldwide tourneys. It will function an inspiration for a lot of Filipinos to pursue as a result of our skills are considered one of a sort.)
READ: Gilas Pilipinas stuns world No. 6 Latvia to open Fiba OQT bid
Gilas, presently ranked 37 on the planet, received 89-80 in opposition to OQT host Latvia. The victory opened up the opportunity of an assured semifinal berth for the Philippine crew ought to they win in opposition to Georgia or lose by a margin of lower than 19 factors.
The Philippines ultimately didn’t win in opposition to Georgia however was capable of clinch the semifinal spot as they misplaced solely by two, 96-94.
READ: Gilas falls brief vs Georgia, however nonetheless headed to Fiba OQT semis
Romualdez in the meantime assured Gilas and different Filipino athletes of the Home’s steady assist.
“We’re dedicated to offering the required assets and help to assist our nationwide crew attain even larger heights. Whether or not by way of legislative measures or collaborative efforts with related organizations, we’ll be certain that our athletes obtain the assist they should excel on the worldwide stage,” Romualdez famous.
“To the gamers, teaching workers, and everybody concerned with Gilas Pilipinas, we lengthen our deepest gratitude and admiration. Your dedication and exhausting work have introduced immense delight to our nation. Might this victory be the primary of many, as you proceed to encourage us along with your distinctive efficiency and unyielding spirit,” he added. —With studies from Moss Laygo, trainee
Your subscription couldn’t be saved. Please strive once more.
Your subscription has been profitable.