Alfrancis Chua is now with Gilas Pilipinas program in an official capacity.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—It turns out that Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone’s wish will actually come to fruition.

Just 24 hours before Gilas’ clash with New Zealand to open its second window of the 2025 Fiba Asia Cup Qualifiers, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) officially installed Alfrancis Chua as the national team’s program director and team manager.

Article continues after this advertisement

Chua is currently serving as San Miguel Corporation’s sports director, as well as being Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s Governor, and the PBA’s Vice Chairman.

READ: Gilas coach Tim Cone hopes Alfrancis Chua could join program

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

Article continues after this advertisement

“I thank boss RSA (Ramon S. Ang) for giving me his blessing in taking this new role and I look forward to working with coach Tim and LA (Tenorio).”

Just a few days ago, Cone said he’d love to have Chua’s presence on the sidelines again after giving the Gilas some much-needed support during its gold-medal run in the 2022 Asian Games.

“He’s a special motivator, whether from a management point of view or by sitting on the bench added to the coaching. He’s just a tremendous motivator. I feel comfortable around him because I know he has my back all the time,” said Cone during a presser in Mandaluyong a few days ago.

READ: After Asian Games success, Alfrancis Chua says future with Gilas is in SBP’s hands

“His impact in the Asian Games where we won gold—I said in the past—was much more responsible in winning that gold than anybody else, myself including Justin (Brownlee),” he added.

Now Chua will expectedly be watching from the sidelines with a more concrete role as the Philippines aims to punch a ticket for the Fiba Asia Cup.

SBP President Al Panlilio was also in high spirits following the announcement of Gilas’ newest member on the bench.

Panlilio also extended his gratitude to San Miguel Corporation’s Chairman and CEO Ang for giving his blessing in Chua’s appointment.

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