The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has officially begun its search for a new Gilas Pilipinas Women head coach following the conclusion of Patrick Aquino’s tenure.

Aquino steps down after more than a decade at the helm, marking the end of a transformative era for the national women’s basketball program. He will now take on a new responsibility within the federation, focusing on talent identification and grassroots development alongside Program Director Norman Black.

SBP president Ricky Vargas acknowledged Aquino’s contributions, emphasizing his role in elevating women’s basketball in the country. The federation, however, is now shifting its focus toward the future and expanding the program’s reach.

Aquino’s tenure delivered historic milestones, including the Philippines’ first-ever Southeast Asian Games gold medal in 2019. He added multiple podium finishes over the years, including another gold in Bangkok, further cementing his legacy.

SBP eyes bigger future for women’s basketball

Beyond regional success, Aquino guided Gilas Pilipinas Women to Division A status in FIBA Asia for both senior and youth levels. The achievement signaled the country’s rise in international women’s basketball.

Vargas noted the evolving global landscape, with Filipina talent emerging worldwide and gaining recognition in international leagues. The federation aims to capitalize on this momentum as it builds a stronger, more competitive national team.

Hosting the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in 2027 has also become a key target, with SBP stressing the need for deeper investment in the program during this critical period.

Global search underway for next head coach

SBP executive director Erika Dy confirmed that the federation will conduct a thorough selection process to determine Aquino’s successor. The search will not be limited to local candidates, as SBP is open to hiring a foreign coach if it leads to the best possible outcome.

The move comes after Gilas Pilipinas Women’s recent campaign in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon, France. The team finished with a 1–4 record, securing a lone win against Cambodia but falling short of a World Cup berth.

Despite the result, SBP remains confident in the team’s potential to compete with top-tier nations. The federation believes the next coaching appointment will be crucial in unlocking that capability.

Gilas Pilipinas Women is set to return to action in August for the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament and in September for the Asian Games in Japan.