STRONG Group Athletics chairman Frank Lao called on Filipinos to rally behind Gilas Pilipinas after the national team’s disappointing campaign in the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.
In a statement, the Gilas Women 3×3 backer urged the public to support the players as they look to recover from the setback and prepare for future international competitions.
“Nadapa na ang mga kababayan natin, tulungan natin para bumangon ulit, tumayo, at para lumaban ulit. Huwag na nating durugin pa,” Lao said.
Lao, the newly appointed president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, also said SGA is always ready to assist Gilas Pilipinas should the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas seek its help.
Gilas failed to reach the quarterfinals of the men’s 5-on-5 basketball tournament after finishing with a 1-2 record in Group C.
The Philippines opened its campaign with a narrow loss to Bahrain, bounced back with a win over Kazakhstan, then suffered a heavy defeat to China that ended its title hopes. (Adrian Co)
