A senator filed a Senate resolution commending the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3 Team for securing a historic silver medal finish in the 2026 FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup, the country’s first-ever podium finish in the women’s tournament.
Under proposed Senate Resolution No. 398, it praises the national squad for its breakthrough performance during the tournament held in Singapore from April 1 to 5.
The senator said the team’s achievement demonstrated the determination, discipline, and fighting spirit of Filipino athletes on the international stage.
“Ipinagmamalaki natin ang Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3 Team sa kanilang ipinakitang tapang, disiplina, at puso para sa bayan,” Senator Christopher “Bong” Go said.
The Philippines surpassed its previous best finish after improving from fourth place in 2025 to a silver-medal finish this year, signaling what Go described as the steady rise of Philippine women’s basketball in Asia.
The Gilas Women’s team advanced to the finals after defeating Mongolia, 15-12, in the quarterfinals and pulling off a thrilling 21-19 semifinal victory over Japan.
The Filipinas eventually bowed to powerhouse Australia, 18-9, in the championship match but still secured the country’s highest finish in the history of the tournament.
“Sa bawat laban, ipinakita nila na ang atletang Pilipino ay may galing, tiyaga, at malasakit sa bandila,” he said.
As chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Go said the team’s success highlights the need for continued investment in grassroots sports development, athlete welfare, and programs supporting women in sports.
He emphasized that athletes need sustained government support through better training, facilities, coaching, nutrition, international exposure, and welfare assistance.
“Dapat tuluy-tuloy ang suporta sa ating mga atleta. Kailangan nating siguraduhin na may sapat silang paghahanda, kagamitan, training, at suporta mula grassroots hanggang national team,” he said.
The resolution also cited provisions of the Constitution mandating the State to promote sports development and support amateur athletics and international competition.
He said the team’s historic run should inspire more young Filipinos, especially girls, to pursue sports and believe they can compete at the highest level.
“Sa mga kabataang nangangarap maging atleta, lalo na sa ating mga batang babae, inspirasyon ang tagumpay na ito,” he pointed out.
The senator added that the silver-medal finish proves that sustained support for Filipino athletes can produce achievements that bring pride and inspiration to the nation.