MVP pushes bid for 2019 FIBA World Cup

MANILA, Philippines -- There's no let up for Philippine Basketball.

With the country returning to the FIBA World Cup after 36 years, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas does not  want it to be just a 'one-and-done deal'. Plans are already in place to make sure Gilas will have a big chance to become a regular fixture in the international arena.

SBP President Manny V. Pangilinan announced on his Twitter account Thursday that he already received documents to bid for the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

Recvd Bid Docs for 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup. Let's bid! Let's host! Laban Pilipinas!

— Manny V. Pangilinan (@iamMVP) July 17, 2014

The successful staging of FIBA Asia Men's Championship here in Manila last year has boosted the country's chances.

Pangilinan is banking on the Mall of Asia Arena, Smart Araneta Coliseum, the 50,000-seater Philippine Arena in Bulacan and the soon-to-be-rise arena in Cebu to provide world-class venues to the games. 

The country last hosted the World Basketball Championships in 1978 that also marked the last time a Phl team participated in the prestigious tournament.