In a significant development for Philippine basketball, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Saturday, March 28, 2026, that decorated head coach Patrick Aquino has stepped down from his position leading the Gilas Pilipinas Women's national team. This move marks the end of a remarkable 12-year tenure that saw Aquino become a pivotal figure in the growth and success of women's basketball in the country.
A Legacy of Leadership and Achievement
SBP president Ricky Vargas expressed deep gratitude for Aquino's contributions in an official statement. "The SBP thanks coach Patrick Aquino for everything that he has done for the program and for all his efforts in the development of women's basketball in the country," Vargas said. He added, "But now it's time to move forward and do more for Gilas Pilipinas Women and the entire women's basketball community in the country." This transition signals a new chapter for the team as it seeks to build on past successes.
Aquino's Illustrious Career with Gilas Women
Patrick Aquino took the helm of Gilas Pilipinas Women in 2014, immediately setting a high standard for the program. Under his guidance, the team achieved numerous historic milestones, including:
- A breakthrough gold medal at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, which was a landmark victory for Philippine women's basketball.
- Repeating this gold medal triumph in 2022 in Vietnam and again in 2025 in Thailand, solidifying the team's dominance in the region.
- Most recently, spearheading a historic 74-59 win against Colombia in the Fiba World Cup Qualifiers. This victory marked the first time the country secured a win at that competitive level, showcasing Aquino's strategic prowess and the team's growing international stature.
These achievements highlight Aquino's ability to develop talent and foster a winning culture within the squad.
Transition to New Roles and Future Focus
Following his departure as head coach, Patrick Aquino will not be leaving the basketball scene entirely. He is set to shift his focus to talent identification and grassroots development, working alongside program director Norman Black. This move aims to strengthen the foundation of women's basketball in the Philippines by nurturing young players and ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for future national teams.
The SBP's announcement underscores a strategic realignment to enhance the program's long-term prospects. As the organization looks ahead, it remains committed to advancing women's basketball, with Aquino's legacy serving as a cornerstone for continued growth and excellence in the sport.
