Sen. Bong Go said he is hoping Gilas will have a better game against Serbia. #fightingspirit #GilasPilipinas #GoForGilas

Sen. Bong Go (left) with Pres. Rodrigo Duterte watching the Philippines-Italy game from the skybox of the GBA International Sports and Cultural Center in Foshan City, China Saturday night. (Contributed photo)

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Saturday called on Filipinos to continue supporting the national basketball players in their FIBA World Cup campaign in China following the defeat of the Gilas Pilipinas men’s side against Italy.

“Nananawagan ako na huwag tayong tumigil sa pagsuporta at pagdasal para sa ating mga manlalaro,” said Go, who watched the game against Italy together with President Rodrigo Duterte from the skybox of the GBA International Sports and Cultural Center in Foshan City, China.

“Hopefully, magiging mas maganda ang performance natin laban sa Serbia at sa iba pang susunod na mga laro. One Team, One Goal, Go for the Gold!” added Go.

The senator said the Filipinos have nothing to be ashamed of in their 46-point loss to the Italians.

“Despite losing the game, our players tried their best and never gave up until the end. Nakita naman natin na ginawa nila ang kanilang makakaya kahit na liyamado ang team Italy,” said Go.

“We remain proud of our team despite the result of one game. Ipinagmamalaki ng bawat Pilipino ang ating mga manlalaro at umaasa tayong ang karanasang makalaban ang isang world class team ay makakatulong sa mga susunod na laban ng Gilas Pilipinas,” he added.