Mc Richard Paglicawan
Social media personality Rendon Labador extended his congratulations to the triumphant Gilas Pilipinas basketball team following their gold medal victory at the 19th Asian Games.
However, amidst his celebratory message, he didn’t miss the chance to bring up the departure of coach Chot Reyes.
“Edi nag-champion na tayo!”
“Buti na lang napa-resign natin si coach Chot. Panalo ang Pilipinas!” he enthusiastically remarked.
It’s important to recall that during the FIBA World Cup, Rendon Labador was outspoken about his desire to see Coach Chot Reyes removed from his coaching position. He consistently voiced his criticisms of Reyes and even suggested that Reyes might be better suited to the role of a “waterboy.”
On October 8, Rendon Labador publicly apologized to former Gilas coach Chot Reyes through his Facebook account on Sunday, October 8. Labador expressed regret for his previous comments directed at Coach Reyes, acknowledging that his words may have been harsh.
In his apology post, Labador stated, “Ito ay pormal na paghingi ko ng paumanhin kay coach Chot Reyes na nasita natin at nakapagsabi tayo ng mga salitang nakaka #SampalNgKatotohanan, aminado akong masakit talaga ako magsalita kaya ako na mismo ang hihingi ng paumanhin sa ‘yo at sa iyong pamilya.”
He continued, “Humanga ako sa ginawa mong pagbibitiw sa pwesto at matapang mo pa ring hinarap ang mga pambabatikos na ibinabato sa ‘yo. Saludo ako sa ‘yo Coach Chot Reyes!!!”
Labador also credited Coach Chot Reyes’s sacrifices and dedication for Gilas Pilipinas’ victory in the recently concluded Asian Games 2023.
Coach Chot Reyes stepped down from his role as the head coach of Gilas Pilipinas shortly after guiding the team to a triumphant 96-75 victory over China during the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 in September.
Chot concluded his resignation with a parting challenge to his detractors, inviting them to a face-to-face meeting.
Meanwhile, the Gilas team clinched the gold medal by defeating Jordan in a thrilling match, bringing honor and pride to the Philippines.
