Batang Gilas still made it to the quarterfinals despite suffering three straight losses in their campaign in the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup at the Newell’s Old Boys in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Their latest setback came at the hands of home team Argentina, 74-71, on Wednesday (Philippine time).
Gerry Abadiano, who tallied 17 points and two assists for the Filipinos, managed to put Batang Gilas ahead in the third quarter at 54-52 when he took command of a 5-2 run.
But the Argentinians held their ground, with Juan Scachi and Gaston Bertona leading a counterattack.
The Filipinos stayed within range but all attempts from Terrence Fortea, Kai Sotto and Abadiano were unsuccessful.
Batang Gilas has dropped its third game in a row in Group D, bowing to France, 95-54, and Croatia, 75-95.
But even with the losses, the Philippines still advanced into the Round of 16, where it will face Canada, ranked second in the world.
The Canadians are unbeaten after three games in Group C.
It will be a knockout encounter for a quarterfinals berth on Thursday.