Gilas veterans Janine Pontejos and Afril Bernardino. FIBA photos
Gilas Pilipinas head coach Pat Aquino is confident that the national women's basketball team can return to the top of the podium in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand.
This, even with a new tournament format and the absence of star center Jack Animam due to her commitments with her club team.
The squad is expected to draw strength from veterans Janine Pontejos and Afril Bernardino.
The likes of Chuck Cabinbin and Ana Castillo, along with young guns Kacey Dela Rosa, Louna Ozar, and Angel Surada banner the crew which faces Singapore Sunday at the same venue.
Completing the roster are Trina Guytingco, Sarah Heyn, Monique del Carmen, and Sophia Dignadice.
"I talked to Janine and Afril, I know they are kinda a little bit old right now," Aquino said. "But their leadership in handling teammates is great for us because of so many years being part of the national team."
The women's basketball tournament in the 2025 SEA Games saw the six participating nations divided into two groups, with the winner advancing to the semifinals outright. The two runners-up will battle in the quarterfinals.
The Gilas Women are with Malaysia and Singapore in Group B.
"It's a good tournament for me. I think we have the talent and the capability to get that gold again," said Aquino.
The Gilas Women will open their campaign against Malaysia on Saturday morning at the Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok.
Tip off is at 9:00 a.m.