President Ferdinan Marcos Jr. watches Gilas Pilipinas’ game against Dominican Republic in the Fiba World Cup at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
BOCAUE, Bulacan—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was among the massive crowd on the opening day of the 2023 Fiba World Cup at Philippine Arena here on Friday.
Marcos showed his full support for Gilas Pilipinas during the Philippines’ game against Karl-Anthony Towns and the Dominican Republic.
Marcos is no stranger to watching Gilas play as he also saw the Philippines beat Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 84-46, in the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers last year.
Last week, Marcos suspended public school classes on all levels and work in the government in Metro Manila to make way for the World Cup opening.
SBP chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan and president Al Panlilio during the Fiba World Cup opening at Philippine Arena. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Aside from Marcos, NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki, Chairman of the Fiba Players’ Commission and Fiba Central Board member, Dirk Nowitzki, was also in attendance.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio and Chairman Emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan were also in attendance alongside PBA board chairman Ricky Vargas. They arrived at halftime of the Angola-Italy game where the Italians won, 81-67.