FIBA: President Duterte to watch Gilas Pilipinas-Italy match
Philippines President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is expected to attend the Gilas Pilipinas-Italy group stage match at the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China, according to spokesperson Salvador Panelo.
Duterte in China for an official state visit from August 28 to September 2. Gilas will face the Italians on Saturday, August 31.
Panelo added per ABS-CBN Malacanang reporter Pia Gutierrez that Duterte’s earlier statement wherein he counted out Gilas against Italy was meant to challenge the Philippine team.
Panelo: The very purpose of the President in going there is to inspire them
— Pia Gutierrez (@pia_gutierrez) August 28, 2019
Gilas will also battle Serbia and Angola in Group D.
