Americas and EMEAIT has been a historic stretch for Gilas Pilipinas Women.
Last April 5, the quartet of Kacey Dela Rosa, Afril Bernardino, Mikka Cacho and Cheska Apag captured a breakthrough silver medal in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2026 — the Philippines’ first-ever podium finish in the continental meet.
A week later, Gilas Women continued to build on that momentum. With Dela Rosa, Bernardino and Cacho joined by Tantoy Ferrer, the team secured a berth in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2026, marking the program’s second appearance in the global showpiece since 2018.
Notably, all five history-makers trace their roots to the UAAP.
Bernardino, who earned a spot on the All-Asia Cup Team, starred for National University (NU) from Seasons 76 to 79, where she also clinched the Most Valuable Player award from 2014 to 2016.
Cacho, another product of NU, suited up for the Lady Bulldogs from Seasons 80 to 85.
Dela Rosa, a two-time UAAP 5-on-5 Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the reigning 3x3 MVP, is entering her fifth year at Ateneo de Manila University.
Ferrer, meanwhile, was named Finals MVP in UAAP Season 86, while Apag is currently a junior at Adamson University.
For Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Executive Director Erika Dy, the UAAP has long been a cornerstone of the national team’s success.
“The UAAP has been a key contributor to our national team program,” said Dy. “Their commitment to women’s basketball is unwavering, and it continues to provide a strong foundation for developing elite talent, not just locally, but also for the international stage.”
SBP 3x3 program director Ryan Gregorio also underscored the importance of the league’s partnership in sustaining the pipeline for national team success.
“We are proud to have the UAAP as a strong partner and stakeholder of the federation,” said Gregorio, who played and studied at University of the Philippines from 1992-1994 before serving as head coach of the Fighting Maroons from 2000-2002.
