The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
THE Philippines and New Zealand shared more than just a hard-fought battle on the court, as both nations commemorated 60 years of diplomatic relations with a symbolic jersey exchange prior to their FIBA clash.
With the special FIBA game in Manila, the jersey swap was proposed during discussions months ago with the Philippine ambassador to New Zealand, as a meaningful tribute to six decades of partnership.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio said the initiative reflects how sports can strengthen diplomacy.
The Filipinos and the Tall Blacks wore No. 60 jerseys during the ceremony, symbolizing the anniversary.
“You know a few months ago we had a meeting with our Philippine ambassador to New Zealand and she discussed the possible programs we can do together because the Philippines and New Zealand are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations and time and we proposed,” said Gregorio
“I think that’s a beautiful collaboration and partnership.”
New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh, speaking in Filipino, expressed her delight at celebrating the friendship between the two countries in a nation known for its love of basketball.
“Ikinagagalak ko makasama kayong ngayong araw na to, upang ipagdiwang ang ispesyal nating pagkakaibigan at samahan. Alam nyo bago ako dumating dito sa Pilipinas narinig ko na basta Pinoy mahilig sa basketball at totoo nga ramdam na ramdam ko ang basketball fever dito sa MOA Arena ngayon,” said New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh when she delivered her remarks in Filipino.
She thanked the hosts for the warm and peaceful welcome, noting that whether in sports or diplomacy, success is rooted in teamwork, trust, and heart.
She added that over six decades, the Philippines and New Zealand have grown from neighbors into strong partners in trade, education, and now, a shared passion for the global game.
“Thank you for having us in this incredible, peaceful atmosphere. So, there’s no better way to celebrate 60 years of friendship between our countries than right here with the people who invigorate our friendship. For those that are asking, whether it’s basketball or in diplomacy, I feel that the source of success is the same. It’s all about teamwork, trust, and a whole lot of heart, or puso. So, it’s wonderful to see so many partners and friends here tonight from the government, the sporting community, who’ve been part of this 60-year journey. For six decades, our two countries have grown side by side,” said Ambassador McIntosh
“We aren’t just neighbours anymore, we are true partners in trade and education. And now we’re both rising hopeful stars in the global basketball world. Whether we’re cheering for the Tall Blacks or the Gilas, we both showed that same puso when we go on the court,” she added
Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary and Chief of Protocol Ariel Peñaranda also highlighted basketball’s role in uniting nations.
He shared that his office helped initiate the celebration of World Basketball Day at the United Nations in New York and was instrumental in establishing the UN Basketball Club. Since 2023, World Basketball Day has been observed annually, and Peñaranda said there are plans to stage a larger celebration on December 21 in coordination with the PSC.
He emphasized the importance of people-to-people ties, pointing to the commemorative logo blending the colors and symbols of both nations around the number 60. The pregame ceremony at center court drew warm applause from the crowd, setting the tone for an evening that celebrated not only competition, but also friendship and shared history.
“I have a very soft spot for basketball, actually, because we were the ones who initiated the World Basketball Day celebration in the United Nations when it was in New York, and as well as the establishment of the UN Basketball Club in New York as well,” said Peñaranda
“So, every year since 2023, we’ve been celebrating World Basketball Day, and as I was talking with Commissioner Walter (Torres) earlier, I think it would be a good idea to celebrate it in a grand manner, perhaps on December 21 this year with the Philippine Sports Commission,”
“And so, you know, this brings us all together, the friendship between the Philippines and New Zealand, people-to-people ties is really very important and very meaningful for our nations. And so, if you look at this screen, you see the colors and symbols of our nations that are seamlessly unified into one harmonious logo with 60 on it. So, as it aptly says, a new horizon of partnership, and let today’s event turn a new and brighter chapter in our relations, one that encourages closer people-to-people ties, as I said, and embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie,” Peñaranda added.