PERTH, Western Australia - The Filipino-Australian community in Perth is buzzing with excitement as Gilas Pilipinas’ historic visit to Western Australia draws closer — an energy so strong it’s now driving brisk ticket sales, rapid movement of locally-printed Gilas fan shirts, and a wave of community-led preparations ahead of the July 6 showdown against the Australia Boomers at RAC Arena.
Demand spiked immediately after the release of the dedicated Philippine bay seats, approved upon the request of the Philippine Consulate in Western Australia. Filipino families, basketball clubs, and community groups across Perth have been securing their spots early, determined to turn the arena into a roaring sea of red, blue, and yellow.
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Local entrepreneur Mark Ingalla, who produces Gilas Pilipinas fan shirts in Perth, said sales have surged in the past week.
“Sales are going fast. Our kababayans really want to show their support — everyone wants to wear Gilas gear on game day,” Ingalla shared.
The Filipino-Australian community has also mapped out a series of activities to welcome the national team, beginning with a reception at Perth Airport on July 4. A fan march is being organized before the game on July 6, followed by a live public viewing and a post-game after-party at a local pub located about 200 meters from RAC Arena.
Community leaders expect the area around the venue to transform into a festive Pinoy hub throughout the weekend.
Philippine Honorary Consul to Western Australia Melissa Aguasa said the enthusiasm is unlike anything she has seen in recent years.
“Tickets are selling very fast. Our kababayans can’t wait to cheer for Gilas Pilipinas. Perth is ready,” Aguasa said, noting that the community is mobilizing to give the national team a hero’s welcome.
Sports club leader Gil Mangoba echoed the sentiment: “Perth is ready to roar. The energy in the community is incredible.”
Gilas, coached by Tim Cone, will be without Kai Sotto and Quentin Millora?'Brown for this window. Reinforcements include UAAP MVP Mike Phillips and Converge standout Justine Baltazar, with Phillips making his first appearance as a locally classified player under FIBA rules. Phillips last suited up for the Philippines at the 2023 SEA Games, where Gilas reclaimed the gold medal.
With Perth’s Filipino-Australian community rallying in full force, the July 6 game is shaping up as a landmark moment of pride, unity, and Pinoy spirit in Western Australia - home to some 50,000 Filipinos, the fifth largest migrant population in Australia.
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