GONE TOO SOON. National University (NU) Lady Bullpup and Gilas Pilipinas Girls standout Ashlyn Abong (September 21, 2006–June 27, 2025) sadly passed away at the age of 18 on Friday.
The heartbreaking news was shared by Gilas Pilipinas Women’s Basketball through Facebook on Saturday, along with a heartfelt tribute to the young and talented player.
“In loving memory of our teammate and friend Ashlyn Abong #21. Quiet, kind, and strong
– that was Ash. She may not have said much, but she always said hi first. That small act meant everything,” the team said on its post.
“It showed her heart – gentle, thoughtful, and always looking out for others. Ash, your jersey was #21, but to us, you were one of one. On and off the field you gave everything. We’ll miss your smile, your warmth, and the quiet strength you brought into every room and every game.”
“We are very proud of you. Thank you for being our teammate, for being our pride, for being Ash. We play for you now. We carry your spirit in every step. Forever our teammate,” the post went on.
Tragic Death
Gilas Women program director Patrick Aquino told Tiebreaker Times that Abong collapsed during training at NU. The school’s medical team attempted to revive her and brought her to the hospital, but she did not survive.
Abong was also set to fly to Taiwan with the rest of the National U squad for the BLIA Cup University Basketball Invitational Tournament in Chinese Taipei.
However, Aquino also mentioned that the team was unaware of any existing heart conditions Abong may have had. Following the tragic incident, Lady Bullpups head coach Camilla Escoto shared a few words in her memory.
“You will always be my pride and joy, Bong. I’m thankful for the opportunity to have seen you grow and mature over the past years with NU – not just as an athlete, but more importantly, as a person,” Escoto said.
“The way you light up a room with your smile and energy is simply contagious. I will always be proud of the life you’ve lived. Mahal na mahal kita, Bong,” the tactician went on to say.
Abong’s death is a tragic blow to Philippine women’s basketball, having been a steady presence in the Gilas Girls program and a participant in last year’s FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B.
The 5-foot-11 center also played for the NU Lady Bullpups in UAAP Season 87, where she tallied averages of 11.63 points, 10.38 rebounds, and 1.63 assists per game. Truly, a rising star for the nation.
