Long before Gilas Pilipinas takes the floor against Australia, the Philippines has already made its presence felt in Perth.
Across Western Australia’s Filipino community, preparations have shifted into full gear as thousands of supporters rally behind the national team ahead of its July 6 showdown with the Boomers in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
From sold-out sections and locally made Gilas merchandise to airport welcomes and community celebrations, the build-up has become more than just anticipation for a basketball game—it has evolved into a celebration of Filipino pride overseas.
The excitement intensified after the Philippine Consulate in Western Australia successfully requested a dedicated Philippine supporters’ section inside RAC Arena.
Almost immediately, Filipino families, basketball clubs, and community organizations began snapping up tickets, determined to transform part of the venue into a sea of red, blue, and yellow when Gilas faces the host nation.
The growing anticipation has also benefited local businesses.
Perth-based entrepreneur Mark Ingalla, who produces Gilas Pilipinas fan shirts locally, said demand has climbed sharply as game day approaches.
“Sales are going fast. Our kababayans really want to show their support — everyone wants to wear Gilas gear on game day,” Ingalla shared.
Support for the national team extends well beyond the arena.
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Community groups have organized a packed schedule beginning with a welcome reception for Gilas at Perth Airport on July 4. A fan march is planned before tip-off on July 6, while public watch parties and a post-game gathering at a nearby pub are expected to keep the celebration going regardless of the result.
With thousands expected to converge around RAC Arena, organizers believe the district will resemble a Filipino festival throughout the weekend.
Philippine Honorary Consul to Western Australia Melissa Aguasa said the response from the community has exceeded expectations.
“Tickets are selling very fast. Our kababayans can’t wait to cheer for Gilas Pilipinas. Perth is ready,” Aguasa said, noting that the community is mobilizing to give the national team a hero’s welcome.
Sports club leader Gil Mangoba shared the same optimism.
“Perth is ready to roar. The energy in the community is incredible.”
The atmosphere will also welcome a refreshed Gilas lineup.
The national team will be reinforced by UAAP MVP Mike Phillips and PBA standout Justine Baltazar, with Phillips set to make his first appearance as a locally classified player under FIBA eligibility rules. He last represented the Philippines during the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, where Gilas reclaimed the men’s basketball gold medal.
Home to an estimated 50,000 Filipinos—Australia’s fifth-largest Filipino migrant community—Perth is poised to become an extension of Philippine basketball culture, proving that even thousands of kilometers from home, Gilas Pilipinas will never have to play without a crowd behind it
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