17 January 2026, Seoul— Filipino basketball players competing in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) took center stage at the KBL All-Star Game event, Future’s Day, as Team Asia edged Team Rookie, 82–79, in a friendly yet highly competitive exhibition game held at the Jamsil Indoor Stadium, Olympic Park in Seoul. Marked by camaraderie, mutual respect, and sportsmanship, the game underscored the role of basketball in fostering friendship and advancing sports diplomacy between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea.

Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, H.E. Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez, led the ceremonial free throw to open the game, symbolizing friendship and a shared passion for basketball between the two countries. Ambassador Fernandez also served as one of the judges for the KBL Rookies Slam Dunk Competition, further underscoring the Embassy’s support for sports as a platform for youth engagement and international cooperation.

The exhibition game brought together Filipino players and Korea’s top rookies in a spirited contest that highlighted the KBL’s commitment to regional talent development and people-to-people exchanges through sports. Players from both teams displayed cooperation, teamwork, and a shared enthusiasm for the game, creating an atmosphere that resonated with fans from both countries.

Leading Team Asia was Filipino standout Alvin Tolentino (Seoul SK Knights), who earned Most Valuable Player honors after recording 19 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists. He was joined by fellow Filipino players Ethan Albano (Wonju DB Promy), Justin Gutang (Seoul Samsung Thunders), Kevin Quiambao (Goyang Sono Skygunners), William Navarro (Busan KCC Egis), Samjosef Belangel (Daegu KOGAS Pegasus), and John Kimwell Figueroa (Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus), whose performances were warmly cheered by members of the Philippine Embassy and the Filipino community in attendance. Also present in support of Team Asia were Rhenz Abando (Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters), Carl Tamayo (Changwon LG Sakers), and Joel Cagulangan (Suwon KT Sonicboom), who were unable to participate in the game.

The Philippine Embassy in Seoul congratulates Mr. Shin Hae Yong, KBL Secretary General; Mr. Soungtae Kim, KBL General Manager; and Mr. Jongoh Son, LG General Manager; the Filipino players of Team Asia; and the Korean Basketball League for the successful conduct of the All-Star event. The Embassy reaffirms its commitment to promoting sports diplomacy that celebrates Filipino excellence while strengthening friendship and people-to-people ties between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea. END.