President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has assured Gilas Pilipinas of the Philippines’ full support at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup (FBWC).

Marcos gave the assurance as he lauded Gilas despite its 87-81 loss to the Dominican Republic in the FBWC opening at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

“A valiant effort by Gilas Pilipinas! Already you have proven that Filipino athleticism is world class,” Marcos said in a Facebook post on Friday night. “The nation stands in full support of your 2023 FIBA World Cup journey.”

Marcos also expressed elation over the large crowd of 38,115 that filled the Philippine Arena.

The high attendance helped the country achieve its goal of beating the previous record of 32,616 spectators in an indoor arena during the the 1994 World Championship finals in Toronto, Canada won by the United States.

“Congratulations as well to every attendee who helped set a new crowd record,” the President said.

Marcos also had the chance to meet with Gilas team members and take a photo with them during halftime.

Gilas will attempt to bounce back against Angola at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Sunday and will cap its Group A assignments against Italy at the same venue on Tuesday.

Only the top two teams from the eight groups, or 16 of the 32, will advance to the next round. (PNA)