BANGKOK—Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio is getting the much-needed support and love in his Gilas Pilipinas seniors squad debut in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games here.
Aside from his family and fans, that special love comes from no less than his girlfriend—Philippine obstacle course team star Kaizen Dela Serna.
The alluring Dela Serna is a proven winner in the SEA Games, having won a gold medal and a silver in the 2019 (Manila) and 2023 (Phnom Penh) editions of the biennial meet.
With no obstacle course event in this year’s Games, Dela Serna was supposed to see action in the sport climbing discipline but a shoulder injury forced her to skip the 10-nation regional sporting spectacle.
“I’m so proud of him. It’s his first SEA Games and we’re so excited to watch him. I know how hard he’s been working for this so we’re all super proud of him,” Dela Serna said of her beau, the Blackwater rookie tabbed No. 3 overall in the last PBA Draft. “Actually, sayang nga because I was supposed to be competing sa SEA Games, not for obstacle, but I also qualified for climbing.
“So, sana climbing ang SEA Games stint ko this year but then unfortunately I’m injured. We went all the way here to support Dalph and I’m also supporting my sister (Kaikaku) because she’s competing in fencing,” added the 23-year-old lass.
After suiting up previously for Gilas Youth, the 6-foot-1 Panopio is relishing the opportunity to help the Norman Black-mentored Philippine five keep the mint in the men’s cage tourney.
“Hell of an experience, you know, na maging teammates ang great players and the opportunity that I could never like replace or give away,” the 25-year-old Panopio said. “I mean, I’m so thankful to be in this position right now.
“Nagpapasalamat ako kay boss Dioceldo (Sy, Bossing owner), coach Jeff (Cariaso), and coach Norman for giving me this opportunity.”
