Press Release - Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa Co-Sponsorship Speech Senate Resolution No. 857

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Good afternoon Mr. President and distinguished colleagues:

I rise today before this august chamber to co-sponsor Senate Resolution No. 857, which recognizes the commendable collaboration of the FIBA LOC, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), and the private sector, all government agencies and instrumentalities for the successful hosting of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup (2023 FBWC).

True enough, sports is an integral part of living, enjoying and learning the blessings of what life has to offer. Sports most especially basketball, is a unifying endeavor for a country such as ours that is constantly divided by politics. Everytime our team goes to battle, win or lose, we are a people united under one flag.

Since becoming the first Asian country chosen to host the FIBA competition in 1978, during its 19thiteration, the Philippines has proven to elevate its game in hosting and welcoming the country-teams, athletes, support staff, and the spectators of what is considered as the biggest international Basketball tournament in the world. No less than 2023 FBWC Chairman, Richard Carrion, stated that the World Cup he witnessed here was truly special and historical.

Mr. President, mapalad po ako na personal na masaksihan kung paano talunin ng ating koponang Gilas Pilipinas Squad sa FIBA ang China. It was personal not only for me but for all our countrymen.

For a country oppressed, such was truly an inspiring win. Yes it was basketball, but a clear message was sent: we can and we will always stand up against bullies. Madalas po nating mabalitaan ang walang habas na reclamation ng China sa West Philippine Sea. Pero noong pagkakataon po na iyon, ang front page po kinabukasan ay: Pilipinas, tinambakan ang China!"

Ramdam na ramdam ko po ang pambihirang saya na dulot ng panonood ng isang live game sa pinakamataas na liga ng basketbol. Iba rin po pala na makinerbiyos nang live. Matindi po ang aking panalangin na magtagumpay ang ating team. Dahil alam ko po na positibo ang magiging epekto nito sa ating mga kababayan. Pero maliban po rito ay paparatangan naman ako ng mga trolls na

ako ang malas kung matalo ang Gilas. Salamat po sa Diyos at nanalo