Senators are calling for an investigation in aid of legislation on the ways to support Gilas Pilipinas following its dismal performance in major international tournaments.

Senators Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, Mark Villar, Joel Villanueva, Francis Tolentino, and Alan Peter Cayetano yesterday filed Senate Resolution 83 that urges the Senate Committee on Sports to "conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation on the ways to support the Gilas Pilipinas men's basketball team."

The five lawmakers seek a review of the "relevant laws and policies to ensure the optimal performance in future international competitions."

"There is a pressing need to revisit sports relevant laws and policies which are aimed to support Philippine national teams participating in international competitions and review any related measures that will ensure competitiveness and welfare of Filipino athletes," the resolution read.

"To direct the Senate Committee on Sports to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation on the ways to support the Gilas Pilipinas men's basketball team with the end in view of reviewing relevant laws and policies to ensure the group's optimal performance in sports competition and protect the welfare of Filipino athletes."

Gilas are licking the wounds of their losses in the international arena.

After losing the gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games, Gilas collapsed in the third window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers and the FIBA Asia Cup, prompting fans to call for the ouster of Chot Reyes and overhaul of the entire program.

"Gilas Pilipinas has placed ninth in the recent FIBA Asia Cup after losing to Japan and New Zealand," the resolution added.