28/08/2026
WHEN “FRIENDLY GAME” STOPPED FEELING FRIENDLY
Dear everyone, honestly, it was disappointing—and embarrassing—to watch how Team GMMTV was treated during the game.
This was promoted as a “friendly game” and a “sibling game,” but some of the behavior on the court felt like the complete opposite. Mockery, unnecessary remarks, overly rough moments, and disrespect have no place in an event that is supposed to bring people together.
Team GMMTV flew all the way from Thailand to the Philippines because they were invited. Even when emotions ran high and some players were hurt, they continued to smile, communicate, apologize, and show professionalism. They came to play—not to create drama.
And the commentary made things even worse.
When a GMMTV player was hurt, repeatedly suggesting that they were only doing it for a “close-up” or screen time was insensitive. When Neo was dealing with cramps and clearly struggling, turning his discomfort into a joke was simply unnecessary. The remarks toward Ping, including mocking his background as a cheerleader, were also completely uncalled for.
Since when did someone getting hurt become entertainment?
Basketball is competitive. Trash talk can happen. But competition should never become an excuse to humiliate, disrespect, or laugh at someone else's pain.
What stands out even more is that Team GMMTV continued to show respect despite the heated moments. They interacted warmly, played their best, and maintained their composure.
We can proudly support Filipino artists without disrespecting international guests who traveled here to play with us.
If this was truly a “friendly” and “sibling” game, then let’s remember what those words actually mean.
Because being competitive is one thing.
Being disrespectful is another.
