PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - Acceeding to Gilas Pilipinas Youth coach Juno Sauler's request, Chog Moral, Ethan Aguas, Kyle Sardon, Kent Basa, and Jacob Lacson are not playing for their respective regions in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa.
Almost a week ago, Sauler bared his hope that these promising prospects 'focus already on the SEABA tournament,' where the Philippines has grand plans of extending its reign.
READ: Sauler hopes Chog and Co. stay put with Gilas Youth after Filoil
The 2026 FIBA U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers is slated for June 10-14, or right after the ongoing Palarong Pambansa. In past years, Moral and Aguas starred for Central Luzon and NCR, respectively, as Sardon impressed for Western Visayas and Basa and Lacson teamed up to lead Central Visayas in the annual showcase of student-athlete talent.
None of them are in Agusan del Sur, however, signaling their full-time commitment to Gilas Youth.
"We appreciate the support and sacrifice shown by the players, families, coaches, schools, and their respective management. We understand that Palaro is also an important tournament, and we respect every situation and decision," Sauler shared with SPIN.ph.
"With SEABA approaching, having time together as a group becomes valuable in building chemistry, continuity, and preparation as we represent the country."
Gilas gets it going
The Filipinos are heading to the regional meet in Krabi, Thailand as six-time defending champions, expected to continue representing Southeast Asia in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup later in the year.
"Preparations have been on track so far. The tune-up games and participation in the Filoil tournament have been valuable in giving the players quality reps and helping us build chemistry and continuity as a group," Sauler answered when asked about Gilas Youth's preparations.
"We continue to focus on improving each day and maximizing the time we have together before SEABA."
Alongside the five players who opted to skip this year's Palarong Pambansa, comprising Sauler's national team are JB Cagurungan, Prince Carino, Andrew Chio, Ziv Espinas, Patrick Pasinos, Louis Razon, and Bruce Tubongbanua, as well as Fil-Ams Lance Amos, Hans Patagoc, and Joaquin Tovera.
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