Grateful to 1Pacman, Justin Brownlee gives back to PH basketball
Justin Brownlee and Milka Romero of 1Pacman party-list.
Proud and grateful as a newly minted Filipino citizen, Justin Brownlee, one of the country’s most beloved basketball stars, has pledged to give back to the sport and the Philippines.
Brownlee, the naturalized favorite of the popular Barangay Ginebra and the spark plug of the Gilas Pilipinas, expressed his gratitude for his Filipino citizenship and his eagerness to give back by contributing to the development of Philippine basketball.
“I really want to give back to basketball,” said the 36-year-old forward. “Hopefully, I can work with younger kids and contribute to the growth of basketball here in the Philippines.”
Brownlee has joined fellow basketball stars Scottie Thompson and Jayson Castro and other pro athletes in supporting Milka Romero and the 1Pacman party-list’s advocacy for sports and youth development.
Brownlee officially became a Filipino citizen in January 2023, thanks to the efforts of outgoing 1Pacman Rep. Mikee Romero, who filed the bill granting him citizenship in the House of Representatives.
Justin Brownlee and Milka Romero of 1Pacman party-list.
His naturalization paved the way for him to join the national team, helping end the country’s 61-year gold medal drought in the Asian Games held in Guangzhou, China.
One of his most memorable achievements was Gilas Pilipinas’ stunning victory over world No. 6 Latvia in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament—breaking a 64-year losing streak against European teams. These historic feats have cemented Brownlee’s status as a national treasure.
Brownlee remains deeply grateful to everyone who played a role in his naturalization.
“I truly appreciate all the senators and congressmen involved in the process. I know it wasn’t easy, but I’m thankful for everyone who made it happen,” he said.
Now, Brownlee is teaming up with Mikee Romero’s daughter, Milka, to continue 1Pacman’s mission of uplifting grassroots basketball, especially in underserved communities.
“Anything that benefits the country, I want to be part of it,” Brownlee said. “Now that I’m a Filipino citizen, I take pride in these things. Whether my role is big or small, I want to help in any way I can.”