MVP is happy to see the gold back to where it belongs.
It was, to say the least, a memorable 32nd Southeast Asian Games for all the Gilas Pilipinas squads—from the 3x3 teams to the revenge tour of the men's team. The entire group will bring home one shiny gold and three silvers, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) couldn't be prouder of the result.
Among those who saluted the national team was SBP chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan, who earlier tweeted choice words after Gilas suffered an unthinkable loss in the group stage against Cambodia. The sports patron, better known as MVP, called the defeat a "disgraceful game" that will "be etched deeply in infamy."
Now, MVP said he's "very happy to be proven wrong." He shared that he sent a congratulatory message to Gilas coach Chot Reyes, of course, not without addressing what he previously said.
"I did include my statement to him that I was happy to eat the harsh words I tweeted earlier," Pangilinan told One News' Cathy Yang.
He also breathed a sigh of relief, probably echoing what many Filipino fans felt during the gold medal game.
"It's a tremendous feeling of relief. And of course, very happy for Gilas and for the country," the sports godfather added.
SBP president Al Panlilio also released a statement on Tuesday, applauding the national team.
"Gilas showed that the pride of fighting for our country is stronger than any other motivation," the statement read.
Boss Al also pointed out what has been repeatedly said about the poor conditions of the playing venue. Cambodia's linoleum floor will eternally be remembered throughout the history of the SEA Games. Justin Brownlee will also not forget the draining heat.
"They played through substandard conditions in the court under the sweltering heat and overcame bumps and bruises to make us all proud," Panlilio added.
The SBP president also tackled about the importance of playing fair (*coughs*).
"This is a reminder to our country and the Southeast Asian region that upholding the values of fair play, sportsmanship, and love for country trumps all."
All's well that ends well for Gilas Pilipinas as the gold medal returns to the Philippines after exacting revenge against Indonesia and Cambodia.
(GM)