Poy Erram was named as a last-minute addition to Gilas Pilipinas ahead of its opening game against Malaysia in the men’s basketball competition of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games on Sunday, December 14, at Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok. The veteran TNT Tropang 5G center was inserted into the 12-man roster to address a late lineup change.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas confirmed Erram replaced College of St. Benilde standout Allen Liwag, who has been dealing with a lingering shoulder injury throughout the NCAA Season 88 campaign. The move was finalized just days before Gilas tipped off its SEA Games campaign.

SBP executive director Erika Dy said Erram was scheduled to arrive in Bangkok on Saturday, December 13, and would be available for the 11:30 a.m. local time matchup against Malaysia. Gilas opens Group A play looking to secure early momentum in the short tournament.

Veteran presence added late

Head coach Norman Black emphasized the importance of Erram’s experience and interior defense, particularly with roster limitations imposed by eligibility rules. The SEA Games decision to bar naturalized players and late passport applicants forced Gilas to adjust its lineup during preparation.

Black noted that Erram had been part of the team’s build-up for the biennial meet, making his late inclusion a smoother transition. His arrival helps reinforce the frontline after several unexpected personnel changes.

Gilas lineup and tournament outlook

Aside from Erram, Gilas also tapped PBA players Robert Bolick of NLEX, Von Pessumal of Titan Ultra, and Blackwater duo Dalph Panopio and Abu Tratter. Ray Parks Jr. temporarily stepped away from his B.League duties with Osaka Evessa to bolster the national squad.

Free agents Jamie Malonzo, Matthew Wright, Thirdy Ravena, and Justin Chua were also included, along with Cedrick Manzano of Adamson and University of the Philippines redshirt Veejay Pre. The team arrived in Bangkok earlier in unusual fashion after their bus broke down on the highway, causing a brief delay.

Despite the hiccup, Gilas settled in ahead of its Group A clash with Malaysia, a pool that also includes Vietnam. Group winners advance directly to the semifinals, while the second and third placers must survive a qualification round to stay in medal contention.