Duterte graces Gilas-France game

MANILA, Philippines – President Duterte hogged the spotlight when he showed up at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Tuesday night to grace the FIBA Olympic Qualifying game between Gilas Pilipinas and France.

With his security detail in tow, Mr. Duterte made his way to the center of the court, and the crowd went rabid with chants of “Du-ter-te!”

<

The President, clad in a blue polo and sporting denims, went on to shake hands with players from both Gilas and the visiting French players.

Mr. Duterte capped his appearance by throwing the ceremonial toss, drawing thunderous roars from the crowd.

The country’s new commander-in-chief is a known basketball aficionado and has vowed to support Gilas in its lofty quest for an Olympic berth.