MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines managed to secure a bronze medal on Saturday following a disastrous campaign in the 3×3 event at the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam.
Gilas Pilipinas whipped Indonesia, 14-10, in the men’s showcase, manufacturing some sort of consolation for a contingent shooting to keep its gilded reign in the biennial meet.
Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, Reymar Caduyac, Jorey Napoles, and Marvin Hayes all made their presence felt in the duel at Thanh Tri Gymnasium in Hanoi.
It was truly a silver lining for the Philippines, which failed to secure a podium finish in women’s action following a crushing 16-10 loss at the hands of Indonesia in the Final Four.
Gilas Women had to make do with a small squad that featured Afril Bernardino and Janine Pontejos, Angel Surada, and Clare Castro as program cornerstone Jack Danielle Animam remained unavailable due to a knee injury.
The men’s team was denied a shot at the gold medal by a vengeful Thailand side that cashed in lessons during its Friday loss to Gilas.
The spotlight now shifts on Gilas’ 5-on-5 squads, who are also looking to defend their lofty perch in the regional showpiece.
The two teams are set to plunge into action on Monday.