The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) introduced Gilas Hiraya as the new identity of the country’s women’s national basketball team, a name designed to reflect the Filipinas’ aspirations and growing presence on the international stage.
SBP executive director Erika Dy explained that the rebranding stemmed from a challenge issued by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to give the women’s squad a distinct identity rather than simply calling it Gilas Pilipinas Women.
“So, it was really a challenge. We were challenged by the FIBA officials to give our women’s team their own identity,” Dy said in an interview with One Sports+’s Starting Lineup.
The federation considered several names before settling on Hiraya, a Filipino word associated with hopes, dreams and aspirations.
“We felt that the meaning of the word really fit what the team symbolized for us, which is really reaching one’s dreams and aspirations,” Dy explained.
The process began around April or May last year, with the SBP board formally approving the name in July during the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup period. The development took nearly a year before the new identity was finalized.
Aside from the name, the team also received a new logo that carries symbolic elements reflecting the character and potential of Filipino women athletes.
Dy said the design was developed after the SBP shared its vision and the meaning behind Gilas Hiraya with the artist responsible for creating the logo.
The emblem features two infinity symbols, representing the team’s limitless potential. Its butterfly-like appearance signifies transformation and reaching one’s highest form, while its curves reflect the Filipino style and identity.
“If you can see, there are two infinity signs, because our women have no limits,” Dy said.
The new identity aims to give the women’s national team a stronger individual brand while preserving its commitment to representing the Philippines in international basketball competitions.
With Gilas Hiraya, the SBP hopes to highlight the team’s ambition to reach greater heights and inspire more Filipinos through its performances on the global stage. (Adrian Co)
