Gilas Pilipinas Women continued their march towards a medal finish in the Women’s 5×5 Basketball Tournament of the 32nd Southeast Asian Games as they downed Thailand, 82-70, Sunday in Cambodia.

Afril Bernardino powered the Filipinas’ offense with 18 points, missing only two of her 11 shots in the game. Khate Castillo, Janine Pontejos, and Jack Animam all scored in double figures, combining for 31 points.

The Philippines started out strong with Bernardino, Animam, and Camille Clarin teaming up in a 13-2 run to open the game. Gilas held on to a safe lead during the entire first half, taking an eight-point advantage at the end of two quarters.

Thailand threatened in the third period, opening the second half on an 11-2 run to get to as close as two points. Castillo and Bernardino went on a counter-run to put the lead back up to safe distance. The Philippines then held off Thailand all the way to the final buzzer.

Gilas will close out their campaign against 2022 bronze medalists Malaysia tomorrow (12:00 noon Philippine time) in a virtual battle for the silver medal. 

Both the Philippines and Malaysia currently hold 4-1 records. Indonesia clinched the gold after staying undefeated in six games.