MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III was among the well-wishers of Gilas Pilipinas despite its loss to Croatia by a slim margin during its first FIBA World Cup game in Spain.
“Nakikiisa ang Pangulo sa buong sambayanan sa paghahatid ng pagbati sa ipinakitang galing at determinasyon ng ating mga manlalaro ng Gilas Pilipinas sa kanilang laban kontra Croatia,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a press briefing on Sunday.
(The President is one with the nation in lauding the players of Gilas Pilipinas for the skill and determination they showed while playing against Croatia.)
“Sa kabila ng matinding pagsubok at hamon, nagawa ng Pilipinas na lumaban hanggang huli at umani sila ng paghanga sa mundo ng basketball,” he said.
(Despite of the challenges, Gilas Pilipinas was able to fight until the end, and they gained the respect of the world of basketball because of that.)
Gilas Pilipinas lost by three points to Croatia on Saturday afternoon 78-81.
During the President’s interview over the radio on Wednesday, Aquino said the FIBA World Cup was a perfect opportunity to showcase the talent and do-or-die attitude of the Filipino people.
“Dagdag pa ng Pangulo na ang puso, ang ambisyon, at ang pagsusumikap upang matamo ang ambisyon ang siyang magsisilbing lakas ng Gilas Pilipinas sa mga susunod pa nitong laban,” Coloma said.
(The President added that a brave heart, clear ambition and perseverance would fuel Gilas Pilipinas’ strength in its next games.)
The Secretary said the whole nation was behind Gilas Pilipinas, praying for their triumph against the best basketball teams in the world.
He also urged the public to continue cheering for the Philippine team, especially since it will face Greece early Monday (Manila time).
“Our battle-cry: ‘Fight Philippines,” he said.
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