SBP lauds ‘well respected’ Sonny Barrios after 13-year service

Sonny Barrios.–SBP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) expressed its gratitude to former Executive Director Sonny Barrios after the appointment of his successor Erika Dy.

Barrios was praised for his contributions to Philippine basketball after almost 13 years of service to the federation.

“ED Sonny is an institution in Philippine basketball and an integral part of what we’ve built in the SBP. He was working in basketball in different capacities for more than three decades and that kind of experience was invaluable to helping the federation reach new heights,” said SBP President Al Panlilio.

“He is a calming presence during difficult times and a devout supporter of every single player who wore our country’s colors. He is also a valued member of the international basketball community, well respected by his peers all over the world. Although we will certainly miss his presence on a day-to-day capacity, we know he will always be there when we need his advice. The SBP wishes him the best of health. He’ll always be part of the SBP family.”

The SBP commended Barrios for “working tirelessly” since his appointment under then SBP President Manny V. Pangilinan and Vice President Ricky Vargas.

Barrios steered the SBP to a successful 2013 Fiba Asia Championship, where Gilas Pilipinas ended a 40-year absence from the World Cup with a silver medal finish at Mall of Asia Arena.

During his term as executive director, Gilas appeared in the World Cup on three straight occasions and hosted the latest at Smart Araneta Coliseum and MOA Arena. The Philippines also captured the Asian Games gold medal for the first time in 61 years.

The basketball patron served as the Event Director of the Fiba Basketball World Cup 2023.

Barrios contributed to the rise of the Gilas Pilipinas women and the promotion of 3×3 and e-sports to the country. He also showed his dedication to the training of coaches, referees, and technical officials as well as the grassroots programs all over the country.

SBP also hosted the 2018 Fiba 3×3 World Cup, multiple windows in the Fiba Asia Cup, and World Cup Asian Qualifiers — including a bubble setup in 2021.