MANILA — The SM Mall of Asia Arena has been confirmed as the venue for the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers matchup between China and Chinese Taipei on March 1, 2026, according to an official announcement by FIBA.

The game, scheduled at 4:00 p.m., will open a double-header at the same venue, ahead of the clash between Gilas Pilipinas and the Australia Boomers at 7:30 p.m.

Reports by Inquirer.net said both China and Chinese Taipei remain winless after two games in the qualifiers, making the matchup critical for their chances of advancing. Tiebreaker Times noted that the Philippines was selected as a neutral venue due to political sensitivities between Beijing and Taipei.

According to Spin.ph, while FIBA has already listed the Philippines as host, final clearance from the Department of Foreign Affairs is still being processed.

The two teams last faced each other during the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, where China defeated Chinese Taipei, 101–73, to claim the bronze medal.

Basketball officials said the double-header gives Filipino fans a rare chance to witness two high-level international matchups in one day, reinforcing the Philippines’ growing role as a neutral hub for Asian basketball.

This Is Why the World Keeps Coming Back to Philippine Basketball

There is a reason FIBA keeps choosing the Philippines. It is not politics. It is not convenience. It is passion.

Basketball in this country is not a pastime. It is identity. From makeshift hoops nailed to coconut trees to packed arenas shaking under chants of “Gilas,” Filipinos live the game. Hosting another major FIBA event is not just a logistical decision. It is recognition of a culture that breathes basketball every single day.

The Philippines’ FIBA journey has never been easy. We have endured blowout losses, heartbreaking exits, and painful rebuilds. Yet the stands remain full. The flags keep waving. The belief never disappears. Few nations lose and still show up louder the next time. That persistence is rare, and the basketball world notices.

Serving as a neutral venue only strengthens that reputation. It says the Philippines can host with respect, intensity, and fairness. More importantly, it reminds everyone that Filipino fans do not need home teams to feel invested. They love the game itself.

For Gilas Pilipinas, sharing the stage that night is symbolic. The journey continues. The expectations remain heavy. But the support is unmatched.

This is not just about one game or one qualifier. It is about a country that refuses to stop believing that it belongs on the world basketball stage. And until that passion fades, the Philippines will always be part of FIBA’s story.