Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — After getting the full support of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manny V. Pangilinan said the country will signify its intention to join the Olympic Qualifying Tournament slated next year.
Related: PBA to fully support national team; 17-man pool for Olympic qualifier announced
Through the Philippine Olympic Committee, Pangilinan said the SBP will file the registration form indicating the Philippines’ intention to participate in the tournament where an Olympic berth is at stake.
“I was advised about the Resolution adopted yesterday by the PBA Board in its Special Meeting held also yesterday,” Pangilinan said in a statement. “We welcome the assistance of the PBA and thank the PBA for its support.”
The league on Wednesday (October 14) expressed its commitment to “fully support” the national team by lending 17 players and adjusting the schedule of its third conference.
The pool is bannered by reigning back-to-back MVP June Mar Fajardo, Asia’s top point guard Jayson Castro, 7-foot behemoth Greg Slaughter, spitfire guard Terrence Romeo, and Calvin Abueva.
Gilas will face heavyweight teams such as France, Italy, and Puerto Rico in the tournament set from July 4 to 10.
“May God bless the Gilas Team, and our country, for this 2016 Wild Card Qualifying,” said the Gilas’ top patron.
Related: No Gilas in Olympics qualifier may mean sanctions for PH, says FIBA
