Valdez also heartbroken over PH’s failed World Cup hosting bid

Alyssa Valdez may be playing in a totally different sport but she, like millions of Filipinos, was also heartbroken over Fiba’s decision to award the 2019 Basketball World Cup hosting rights to China.

The Ateneo Lady Eagles superstar did her part in helping the country’s hosting bid through social media, which was one of the focus of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’s final pitch before the Fiba Central Board in Tokyo, Japan.

SBP encouraged Filipinos to show their full support and make their presence to underscore Philippines’ reach on social media.

Valdez’s tweet about why the Philippines should host the World Cup host got thousands of retweets and favorites, helping the #PUSO2019 campaign to land as the No.1 trending topic worldwide.

“It’s really heartbreaking,” said Valdez after leading the Lady Eagles to a 5-0 sweep in the preliminary round of the Shakey’s V-League Collegiate Conference Saturday night. “But then again, there’s still next time for us to host and there’s a reason for sure why we’re not honored [to be the host].”

“Congratulations to China. For sure they’ll be a great host. And of course, we’ll show our support all the way because it’s basketball after all and we’re really the passionate fans. It’s really heartbreaking news for all Filipinos,” she added.

The 22-year-old Valdez chose to look at the bright side instead of crying over spilled milk.

“Everything naman if para sa atin, para sa atin talaga (if it’s for us, it’s for us),” she said.

She also took time to give saddened Filipinos something to smile about.

“Just believe. There’s nothing wrong with hoping. Be happy. At least we were honored to be among the last two countries which Fiba’s choice came down to,” Valdez said. “Let’s all be happy and just be thankful for all the blessings that we’re receiving.” CFC