Veteran core powers Gilas Women roster for FIBA World Cup qualifiers 

Experience will be at the heart of the Philippines women’s national basketball team campaign as it heads into the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France.

With the challenge of facing some of the world’s top teams ahead, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas leaned on a veteran-heavy lineup, highlighting players who have already built chemistry through years of international competition.

Among those expected to anchor the squad are longtime national team standouts Louna Ozar and Angel Surada, two key figures who have grown into dependable presences in the Gilas rotation. Their experience in high-pressure regional tournaments is seen as crucial as the Filipinas step onto a bigger global stage.

Both players were part of the Philippines’ triumphant run in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, where Gilas Women reclaimed the gold medal and reaffirmed their dominance in Southeast Asia. That championship core largely remains intact, with nine members of that squad returning for the upcoming qualifiers.

Veteran leadership will also come from players such as Afril Bernardino, Janine Pontejos and Trina Guytingco, all of whom bring valuable international exposure and stability to the roster.

The team’s blend of experience and youth is further complemented by emerging talents including Kacey Dela Rosa, Sophia Dignadice, Sarah Heyn and Ann Pingol, who are expected to provide energy and versatility.

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LABAN, GILAS WOMEN

Get to know the 12-woman Gilas Pilipinas Women lineup set to represent the Philippines in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France!#GilasPilipinas #FIBAWC pic.twitter.com/AX12HCw5k9

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) March 10, 2026

One of the most intriguing inclusions is Stefanie Berberabe. Previously classified as a naturalized player under the SEA Games eligibility rules, Berberabe was unable to suit up during the Philippines’ title run in Thailand. Her presence now gives Gilas an additional scoring and playmaking option heading into the qualifiers.

Completing the lineup are Kent Pastrana, the Most Valuable Player of the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Finals, and fellow rising prospect Sumayah Sugapong.

Gilas Women begin their campaign against host squad France women’s national basketball team, the first of several daunting matchups against elite opponents.

For Ozar, Surada and the rest of the veteran core, the upcoming tournament represents another opportunity to lead the Philippines beyond regional success and closer to the sport’s biggest stage.

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