The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has secured additional backing for its women’s basketball program after announcing a partnership with Akari that will focus on supporting the development of the Gilas Pilipinas Youth Women team.

Under the agreement, Akari becomes the Official Lighting and Electrical Partner of both the SBP and the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s Program, reinforcing the company’s growing involvement in Philippine sports and women’s athletics.

The partnership comes as the national women’s basketball program continues to build momentum across multiple age groups, with both elite and youth squads competing at the highest levels of Asian basketball.

Growing support for women’s basketball

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy welcomed the partnership, highlighting the progress made by the women’s basketball program in recent years.

According to Dy, the continued growth of the national setup has created opportunities to attract partners who share the organization’s vision of developing Filipina athletes and expanding the reach of women’s basketball in the country.

She noted that Akari’s established presence in Philippine sports and commitment to supporting women’s competitions made the company a natural fit for the program.

The partnership is initially set for one year, although both sides expressed optimism that the relationship could continue beyond the current agreement due to their shared goals and long-term objectives.

Akari Chief Executive Officer Chris Tiu emphasized the company’s commitment to helping develop the next generation of Filipina basketball players and supporting their efforts to compete on the international stage.

U18 team set for SEABA qualifiers

The first major event under the new partnership will be the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers, where the Gilas Pilipinas U18 Women’s team will carry the Akari logo on its jerseys.

Akari will also serve as an event sponsor for the regional tournament, which will be held from June 2 to 6 at the STI West Negros University Gym in Bacolod City.

The competition will feature participating teams from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam as they battle for qualification and regional honors.

Gilas Pilipinas Women Program Director Bacon Austria expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the partnership provides an additional boost for a team that has demonstrated commitment and determination throughout its preparation period.

Austria also stressed that the growing support from corporate partners reflects increasing recognition of the potential within Philippine women’s basketball and the dedication displayed by its athletes.

As the national youth team prepares to compete on home soil, the partnership with Akari adds another layer of support to a program aiming to strengthen its standing in Asian basketball and create more opportunities for future generations of Filipina players.