MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines will host four days of 3×3 basketball competitions starting Thursday at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall to earn ranking points and strengthen its bid for qualification to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, organizers said.
The FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series and the Manila Challenger will feature local and international teams, with the host federation aiming to increase its standing in global rankings.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy said the events form part of the country’s long-term Olympic program.
“The main goal of our 3×3 program, both men’s and women’s, is LA 2028,” Dy said. “It’s really about garnering the most number of points for our federation and our team, and the best way to do that is to host events like these.”
The Philippines will field two teams in the women’s division and three teams in the men’s division.
The Mandaluyong team will include Jerrick Ahanmisi, Joseph Eriobu, Sean Alter, and Dominick Fajardo. San Jose del Monte will field Nic Cabañero, Gelo Crisostomo, Doy Dungo, and Aldous Torculas. The Pasay team will consist of Jomel Puno, Zedjay Etulle, Robbie Herndon, and Jef Maday.
Dy said the participating teams will contribute ranking points toward the country’s qualification efforts for the 2028 Olympic Games.