San Miguel Corporation top honcho Ramon S. Ang joined millions of Filipinos who celebrated Gilas Pilipinas’ monumental 77-76 win over host China, effectively ending a 25-year medal drought in the Asian Games and earning a shot at the gold medal which the Nationals have not won for the past six decades.
“Let me join millions of Filipino basketball fans in congratulating Gilas Pilipinas—from its coaches to the players and team management —on our country’s historic return to the Asian Games Finals after 33 years,” said Ang in a statement.
The SMC group has been taking an active part with the national team, joining hands with the MVP group and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas ever since the start of the 2023 FIBA World Cup hosting
However, it was only before the Asian Games when SMC, through its sports director Al Francis Chua, took the helm in the national team program, alongside the PBA Board of Governors, after Gilas was left without its best players and coaches following the resignation of former head coach Chot Reyes.
Without the players that saw action in the World Cup, Gilas hastily assembled an all-PBA team, with Ginebra head coach Tim Cone leading the way from the sidelines.
Faced with doubts, especially with the lack of preparation time and the uncertainty surrounding its lineup even at the eve of its first game, Gilas defied expectations with the impressive run – something that Ang is also crediting to the vision of SBP chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan.
“Our sincere appreciation goes to Mr. Manny Pangilinan, Chairman Emeritus of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the Gilas Pilipinas we cheer for today,” said the SMC big boss.
“He conceived, nurtured, and invested in the program, and it is his unwavering support and guidance all these years that molded–and continues to drive–the team,” he added.
Ang also added that the SMC group – which lended its PBA players to the national team – is proud to be a part of Gilas historic run. He also pleaded for prayers and support for the Nationals as they go on to fight for the coveted gold medal against Jordan.
“Gilas Pilipinas has given our country great honor, and San Miguel Corporation is proud to be supporting the team, along with many others–including private sector partners, government, the Philippine Basketball Association—whose collaborative efforts have helped make this Asian Games journey not just memorable, but also triumphant,” he continued.
“As Gilas Pilipinas sets its sights on the gold, let us all continue to be united, and wish them all the best,” he ended.
