Alfrancis Chua joins Gilas Pilipinas as program director and team manager

Alfrancis Chua is back with Gilas Pilipinas.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Wednesday the appointment of Chua as the national team’s program director and team manager for Gilas Pilipinas Youth and Men.

The development was revealed a day before the nationals take on New Zealand in the November window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.

READ | Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers - November 2024 Window

“I am very happy that Alfrancis is back with Gilas. I work well with him and our only objective is to elevate Philippine basketball,” SBP President Al Panlilio said in a statement. 

“The SBP also extends our appreciation to San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ramon Ang for supporting this decision to have Alfrancis help the program again.”

Chua last joined the Gilas program as manager in the Asian Games last year where the Philippines won the gold medal. 

"It was great having him on the bench motivating the players. He is such a great motivator. That's one of the things that we hope to enhance the program with his presence,” said Gilas Pilipinas Men head coach Tim Cone.

“He has always been there for me to consult with and talk with. And of course, we had that great run in the Asian Games which was fantastic.”

Chua, meanwhile, said he is happy to work with men’s team head coach Tim Cone and newly-appointed youth coach LA Tenorio.

“I’m happy I’ll be able to help Gilas in this capacity,” said Chua.

Chua is also San Miguel Corporation sports director and vice chair of the PBA Board of Governors.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News