Gilas Pilipinas guard Dalph Panopio and Philippine obstacle course team star Kaizen Dela Serna at the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok, Thailand. POC Media
Dalph Panopio's stint with the Philippine men's national basketball team in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games is special in more ways than one.
It's the Fil-Italian guard's debut with the senior team after a stint with the Gilas Youth several years ago, and they are already assured of a spot in the semifinals after winning their first two assignments.
READ: Dalph Panopio says it's 'right time' to make senior debut for Gilas Pilipinas
Panopio is also getting much-needed support and love in his campaign from his family and fans, as well as from his girlfriend who is an elite athlete herself.
Philippine obstacle course team star Kaizen Dela Serna is in Bangkok, Thailand to cheer for Panopio, after her planned participation in the SEA Games fell through because of an injury.
"I'm so proud of him. It's his first SEA Games and we're so excited to watch him. I know how hard he's been working for this so we're all super proud of him," said Dela Serna of Panopio, the third overall pick in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft by Blackwater.
"Actually, sayang nga because I was supposed to be competing sa SEA Games, not for obstacle, but I also qualified for climbing," she explained. "So, sana climbing ang SEA Games stint ko this year but then unfortunately I'm injured."
Obstacle racing was not included in the SEA Games program this year, and an untimely shoulder injury forced Dela Serna to miss the sport climbing event.
Nonetheless, she still found her way to Bangkok.
"We went all the way here to support Dalph and I'm also supporting my sister (Kaikaku) because she's competing in fencing," she added.
Dela Serna won a gold medal in the 2019 SEA Games, when obstacle race made its debut in the biennial showcase, and a silver in the 2023 edition in Cambodia.
Panopio, for his part, is hoping to end his maiden SEA Games stint with a basketball gold.
"Hell of an experience, you know, na maging teammates ang great players and the opportunity that I could never like replace or give away," the 25-year-old Panopio said. "I mean, I'm so thankful to be in this position right now.
"Nagpapasalamat ako kay boss Dioceldo (Sy, Bossing owner), coach Jeff (Cariaso), and coach Norman for giving me this opportunity."
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