Philippine Sports Commission chairperson Patrick Gregorio (2nd from right) and FIBA secretary general Andreas Zagklis shake hands during a meeting in Shenzhen, China on Sunday (July 20, 2025). Gregorio also cheered the Gilas Pilipinas Women competing in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025. (Contributed photo)
Edusentro | PSC Chair Gregorio Rallies Behind Gilas Women, Strengthens FIBA Ties in China | MANILA — Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairperson Patrick Gregorio is showing full support for the Gilas Pilipinas Women as they compete in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 in Shenzhen, China — marking his first official overseas trip as PSC chief.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) expressed its gratitude for Gregorio’s presence, which they say comes at a crucial time as the Philippines sets its sights on hosting the 2027 edition of the tournament.
“We’re thankful to Chairman Gregorio for backing our women’s team and for stepping in to support our plans for the 2027 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup,” said SBP president Al Panlilio.
Gregorio met with top FIBA officials, including Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, FIBA Asia President Dr. K Govindaraj, and Executive Director Hagop Khajirian, along with SBP executive director Ericka Dy. The group discussed future collaborations and the role the PSC can play in strengthening women’s basketball in the country.
“Chairman Gregorio was keen to learn how the PSC can help elevate the women’s program. He was really impressed by the grit and talent of our athletes,” Dy shared.
Gregorio also emphasized the potential of expanding international basketball events beyond Metro Manila to promote sports tourism and widen community engagement.
“Basketball is deeply rooted in our culture. We’d love to see more FIBA events not just in Manila, but across the country — from Pampanga to other provinces. It’s a great way to boost tourism and foster sports diplomacy,” he said.
The PSC chair also took the opportunity to explore FIBA’s eligibility rules, particularly in relation to Filipino athletes around the world.
“There are many talented athletes globally who identify as Filipino but may have missed the passport cutoff before age 16. Some of them even carry our flag in the Olympics. I’m with the SBP in exploring solutions to ensure they get a fair shot at representing the Philippines,” Gregorio added.
– From PNA
