By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negrenses Kent Jane Pastrana and Ella Fajardo are ready to lead the Gilas Pilipinas women’s national basketball team in the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in China.

The Philippines, which is in Division A of the tournament, will aim to secure a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

“This is great for Coach Pat [Aquino] and the team, because they’ve already gained exposure,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy, referring to Gilas women’s recent stint at the 2025 William Jones Cup in Taiwan.

“If you followed their games, they were able to keep up, and it was only in the final stretch that they fell behind,” Dy added.

Joining the two is a mix of rising stars and seasoned players: Cielo Pagdulagan, Kent Pastrana, Angel Surada, Louna Ozar, Kacey dela Rosa, and Jack Animam.

Completing the roster are experienced campaigners like Vanessa de Jesus, Yvette Villanueva, Khate Castillo, Naomi Pangabinan, and promising rookie Sumayah Sugapong.

After battling Australia last night, Gilas returns to action against powerhouse Japan tonight at 7:30, before closing the group stage against Lebanon on Wednesday, July 16 at 1:30 p.m./ASC, WDJ