Tantoy Ferrer returns as Gilas Women chase FIBA 3×3 World Cup Qualifiers dream after Asia Cup breakthrough

Coming off their historic podium finish at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup, the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3 team now turn their attention to a bigger goal—securing a spot in the FIBA 3×3 World Cup.

Returning to Singapore this week, Gilas Women will carry both momentum and expectation into the qualifiers set on April 11 to 12 at the OCBC Square. With only three slots available for the World Cup in Warsaw, Poland from June 1 to 7, the stakes are significantly higher.

Anchoring the roster are three key holdovers from their Asia Cup run: two-time UAAP MVP Kacey Dela Rosa, Afril Bernardino who was recently named to the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup 2026 All-Star Team—and former UAAP champion and NU captain Mikka Cacho. Their chemistry and experience will be crucial as the team navigates a tougher field.

But the biggest storyline may revolve around the addition of Reynalyn Ferrer, who steps in for Cheska Apag. Known as “Tantoy,” Ferrer brings not just talent, but a story of resilience and championship pedigree.

A former standout for the UST Growling Tigresses, Ferrer was instrumental in ending the school’s 17-year title drought, delivering 19 points and 14 rebounds in the UAAP Season 86 Finals and earning Finals MVP honors. 

Her leadership and ability to perform under pressure make her a valuable addition to a team aiming to compete on the world stage.

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Last call for the 3×3 World Cup, who’s gonna answer?!

#3x3WC Qualifier
April 11 – 12
Watch LIVE on the FIBA 3×3 YouTube channel! pic.twitter.com/e4qnX56Bdq

— 3×3 Basketball | FIBA3x3 (@FIBA3x3) April 8, 2026

Her journey, however, has been anything but easy. Just a year before that championship run, Ferrer suffered an ACL injury that sidelined her, making her comeback and Finals MVP performance even more remarkable. 

That experience of adversity and recovery now adds a layer of toughness to the Gilas lineup as they prepare for high-stakes international play.

Ferrer is no stranger to the 3×3 format either, having suited up for Gilas in the Manila Hustle tournament earlier this year and representing the country in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand last December 2025.

The Philippines enters the qualifiers as the No. 2 seed in Pool B alongside host Singapore and No. 6 Brazil, while Pool A features Hungary, Egypt, and Lithuania. According to FIBA 3×3 rules, the top two teams in each pool will advance to crossover matchups, where the second-ranked teams from opposite pools will battle for the remaining World Cup slots.

Gilas Women will open their campaign against Brazil on April 11 at 3:20 p.m., a crucial first step in their bid to extend their breakthrough year.

With a proven core, a battle-tested newcomer in Ferrer, and momentum from their Asia Cup run, the Filipinas are no longer just competing—they are chasing a place among the world’s best.

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