Gilas Women clinch World Cup qualifiers berth, finish sixth in FIBA Asia Cup 2025

Peter Jandrei Melan

Gilas Pilipinas Women secured a historic berth in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers despite bowing out early in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, ending their campaign in sixth place after back-to-back losses to South Korea and New Zealand in Shenzhen, China.

The Philippines initially stunned Lebanon to guarantee a top-six finish and World Cup qualifying ticket—their first in program history. 

But their semifinal hopes were dashed after a 104-71 loss by perennial contender South Korea in the quarterfinals, where the Gilas defense couldn’t contain the hot hands of Haeran Lee and Yoolim Kang, who combined for 45 points.

A day later, Gilas fell short in the fifth-place match against world No. 26 New Zealand, 78-71. 

Despite a late third-quarter surge that briefly gave them the lead, GIlas Pilipinas collapsed in the closing minutes, surrendering an 11-0 run that sealed their fate and matched their sixth-place finish from 2023.

Vanessa de Jesus led the scoring in the classification match with 16 points, while Naomi Panganiban and Khate Castillo chipped in double digits. 

Jack Animam added an all-around effort with 9 points, 8 boards, 4 assists, 4 steals, and 4 blocks.

Gilas wrapped up the tournament with a 1-4 record, but with a milestone secured: a step closer to the global stage.