Go enthusiastic on PH's hosting of FIBA World Cup 2023
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go is elated at the Philippines’ upcoming hosting of the FIBA World Cup 2023, saying this would help promote the country for tourism once again.
The Senate Committee on Sports chief expressed his unwavering support and optimism for the Philippines' hosting of the event during the Naismith Trophy Tour's stop at SMX Lanang in Davao City on Friday, August 18.
The Trophy Tour's recent stop featured Go as well as Gilas Pilipinas ambassadors Jayson Castro and Gary David.
Go said the FIBA World Cup will not only promote sportsmanship, international camaraderie, but also showcase the beauty of the Philippines to the world.
“We supported the hosting of the FIBA World Cup 2023 during the Senate’s deliberation on the proposed 2023 national budget. We allocated funds for the hosting and so we hope that this would be succesful,” Go said.
“It is important to promote our nation, tourism and for the whole world to see the beauty of the Philippines,” the senator reiterated.
Asked about how the sports event would benefit Gilas, the country’s national basketball team, the senator it would be “big.”
“Malaking tulong po ito (This would be a big help), once in a lifetime lang po ito. Baka hindi na po ito mauulit siguro sa panahon natin (It may not be repeated again in our time),” he said.
“Isipin n'yo, top 12 teams (sa buong mundo), dito maglalaro sa Pilipinas. Ngayon lang natin masasaksihan yan sa buong buhay natin (The top 12 teams in the whole world will come and play here in the Philippines. This is the first time in our life that we will witness such an event,” added Go.
Despite the excitement, Go urged the nation to come together to support their team.
At the same time, the senator urged everyone to cooperate to ensure the success of the games and to support the country’s very own Gilas Basketball team.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has also expressed confidence and hope for the upcoming FIBA World Cup which is scheduled to begin on August 25, with 16 of the top 32 basketball squads heading to the country for the group stages.