DOHA 15 February 2025 — The Philippine men's national basketball team Gilas Pilipinas pulled off a scintillating win over Qatar, 74-71, in a nail-biting match on the first day of the 2nd Doha International Cup.

Playing before a packed venue at Qatar University on 14 February 2025, the Gilas players displayed a mastery of the art of closing out the game in style, stunning the host country.

Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, joined thousands of Filipinos in cheering for the Philippine team.

He also personally conveyed his congratulations to the players and coaching staff for coming through in the clutch.

The Gilas are set to face the national teams of Lebanon and Egypt on 15 and 16 February 2025, respectively.

The Doha friendlies form part of the team’s preparations in the run-up to the qualifiers for the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup and the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.