Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan has received an Order of Merit award from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
The business tycoon received the citation, which is given to individuals that have made very significant contributions to furthering the sport of basketball, during the FIBA Hall of Fame night on Wednesday.
In his speech, Pangilinan offered the citation to his colleagues at SBP, the Philippine Basketball Association, the Filipino cagers, and the Filipino basketball fans who have supported the Gilas Pilipinas.
“I received this award on behalf of many of us who worked to nurture this sport of basketball in my country,” Pangilinan said.
“I am dedicating this to my colleagues at the SBP, the PBA, our local players, but most importantly, the millions of local basketball fans who are the craziest bunch but one of the world’s best,” he added.
Pangilinan also recalled the “frosty” treatment of the FIBA by the SBP during 2007, when the country was still suspended by the international basketball body, but the relationship between the two has since improved.
The SBP chairman emeritus concluded his speech by assuring FIBA that he will continue to support them even if he is about to end his stint on the FIBA central board.
“This is my last official act to the FIBA central board. It was a privilege to have served and a unique learning experience for me. I depart knowing that my seat will be better served by a younger person,” Pangilinan said.
“My exit does not mean the end of our relationship with FIBA. On the contrary, I assure you that SBP and I will remain supporters of FIBA. We are your teammates for life, and we will pursue our work together to win for all,” he added.
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