MANILA, Philippines — Fresh off a historic performance in the FIBA Asia Cup, the Gilas Pilipinas women’s 3×3 team is officially launching its campaign for an outright berth in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. During a Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Executive Director Erika Dy confirmed that the country is currently in a qualifying position.
“If the Olympics were to start tomorrow, we are qualified already,” Dy told the forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. However, she emphasized that the real challenge is maintaining the ranking points required over the next two years.
The Philippines has ascended to the No. 2 spot in Asia for women’s 3×3 basketball, a position that provides an outright Olympic berth under FIBA’s current ranking system.
- The Silver Medal Boost: The team’s historic silver medal at the FIBA Asia Cup was the primary catalyst for this jump in rankings.
- World Cup Bound: Along with the high ranking, the team has successfully clinched a berth in the upcoming 3×3 World Cup.
- Ranking Points: Qualification for the 2028 Games depends on accumulated FIBA ranking points. Every win in sanctioned FIBA 3×3 tournaments contributes to the national federation’s standing.
The “Big Dream” of reaching Los Angeles rests on a seasoned core of players and coaching staff:
- Key Players: The roster features veteran leader and three-time SEA Games gold medalist Afril Bernardino, along with Kacey Dela Rosa, Mikka Cacho, Cheska Apag, and Reynalyn Ferrer.
- Leadership: The program is guided by head coach Anton Altamirano and program director Ryan Gregorio.
Afril Bernardino expressed confidence in the team’s trajectory, noting that while the competition in Asia—particularly from powerhouses like China—is fierce, the goal of an outright berth is “doable” given the team’s current momentum.
To stay in the top two in Asia and secure the LA 2028 slot, Gilas Women must navigate a grueling 2026-2027 calendar:
- World Cup Performance: A strong showing in the 3×3 World Cup will provide a massive point windfall.
- FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series: Consistent participation in the global circuit is necessary to prevent other nations from overtaking the Philippines in total points.
- Regional Dominance: Defending their high standing in the next FIBA Asia Cup cycles.
The SBP has pledged full support for the 3×3 program, viewing it as one of the most viable paths for Philippine basketball to return to the Olympic stage.