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    Guiao not turning back on politics, but glad to give Gilas his full attention

    Yeng Guiao gives Gilas full attention after failed congressional bid
    May 28, 2019
    PHOTO: Jerome Ascano

    PAMPANGA’s loss is Gilas Pilipinas’ gain.

    Yeng Guiao has finally come to terms with his failure to regain his congressional seat in the first district of Pampanga during the mid-term elections two weeks ago.

    Now the more pressing matter gets his undivided attention.

    Guiao, who lost to incumbent Rep. Jon Lazatin, will start putting Gilas Pilipinas' buildup in order three months before it embarks on its FIBA World Cup bid in China.

    The national coach is looking to assemble the team for its first practice session by the first week of June in what should be the start of its twice-a-week training.

    “I can focus more on the basketball, not just with NLEX, but also with the Gilas preparation to the World Cup,” said Guiao.

    “The more important thing now is to be able to put that behind you and look forward to the challenges na kailangan nating harapin.”

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      At the same time, Guiao finds solace in the fact that he’ll have more time to spend with his family following the latest setback in his political career.

      “Actually, masaya nga 'yung pamilya ko ngayon. That’s another way of looking at it,” said a smiling Guiao.

      Despite coming short in his congressional bid, the former Pampanga vice governor said public service will always be a part of his advocacy.

      “Sa akin kasi, it’s all part of the package. You enter a race, you can win, you can lose. Ang importante sa akin, I felt I had something to offer,” said the NLEX and national coach, whose father, Bren Guiao, was a former governor of Pampanga.

      “Politics will always be there. Parati namang andiyan 'yan. Option parati 'yan especially sa amin.”

      Asked whether he’ll still consider running for public office in the near future, Guiao said everything remains up in the air.

      “I’m not saying na open ako, I’m not also saying na close ako. I think the opportunity will present itself in a manner where malalaman mo kung papasukin mo ulit o hindi na,” he said.

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      “I’m not really closing the door, but just observing the situation.”

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      PHOTO: Jerome Ascano
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