NEW Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Noli Eala yesterday called on cage fans to support Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the FIBA World Cup next year.
“I encourage everyone, not just basketball-loving Filipinos, to support the country’s hosting of the World Cup, which gives so much pride for the Philippines being one of the hosts, and stay behind our very own Gilas Pilipinas team,” said Eala.
A former PBA commissioner who also served as executive director of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas several years ago, Eala was the project director of the original Smart Gilas Pilipinas in 2008, the precursor of the Gilas program now being handled by Chot Reyes.
The World Cup is expected to showcase the Filipinos’ world-class hosting capabilities and provide an economic boost to the country that is still trying to get back on its feet up in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Last Wednesday, SBP officials paid a courtesy call on Eala. Joining Eala in welcoming the visiting officials was PSC Commissioner and Philippine Sports Hall of Famer Bong Coo.
Leading the courtesy visit of the SBP were executive director Sonny Barrios, who also serves as event director for the FIBA World Cup 2023; Erika Dy, deputy event director, Dickie Bachmann, division chief for operations; Atty. Aga Francisco, SBP legal consultant and chairman of the FIBA legal commission and John Lucas, head of operations, joint management committee.
