Low-key Duterte may not watch Gilas-France game live

President Rodrigo Duterte's low-key nature might prevent him from watching Tuesday's Gilas Pilipinas-France game in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT).

"He might attend," presidential spokesperson Ernie Abella told Malacañang reporters again asked if Duterte will watch the game at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City.

Abella, however, said Duterte may also decide against it because "he is a very low-key guy."

"There are issues to be considered. Security. He does not want to impose himself... He doesn't even want to disturb traffic," Abella said.

Duterte's close aide, Presidential Management Staff chief Secretary Christopher "Bong" Go and losing running mate Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano are basketball enthusiasts, often playing friendly matches in a covered court in Davao City during the campaign season.

On Sunday, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said there is a big possibility that Duterte will watch the game at the MOA Arena.

Andanar, however, said the President may also opt to watch the game on TV.

"Malaki po ang posibilidad na manood po ang Pangulo whether live or sa telebisyon," Andanar said.

In a visit in Davao City last month, the the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Sonny Barrios visited Duterte invited Duterte to the Olympic qualifier.

The FIBA OQT will be held from July 5 to 10. The tournament will open with a game by Turkey and Canada followed by the match between Gilas Pilipinas and France. —ALG, GMA News