President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. is set to make the ceremonial toss of the ball at the 2023 FIBA World Cup today, August 25.
The biggest basketball spectacle in the world will be holding its opening ceremony later at 4 PM at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
The Philippines is currently co-hosting the Basketball World Cup 2023 alongside Japan and Indonesia.
In October 1978, his father, former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr. graced the opening ceremonies of the then-FIBA World Championship held at the Araneta Coliseum.
During the courtesy call of the members of the FIBA Central Board and delegates from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas in Malacañang in April, Marcos said he is excited to "reenact" his father's ceremonial jump ball toss.
"I was there when my father first tossed the ball. And I'm happy that I will be there when the FIBA events — World Cup now, will return to the Philippines. So it would be an honor for me to reenact what my father did in 1978," he said.
Marcos will toss the ball in the opening game of Angola vs. Italy. Philippines' Gilas is set to play against the Dominican Republic at 8:00 PM today.
