Women in the Philippines are finally making inroads in basketball after decades of struggling to be seen

Filipina leaders are pushing for inclusivity, and for people to embrace the uniqueness of the women’s game. (Getty Images: Dave Rowland)

In 2008, the Women's Philippine Basketball League was revived in the hopes of professionalising the country's top sport for women. But the excitement turned sour when the players were made to wear makeup and a tight-fitting uniform.

"They looked like sales ladies playing basketball," former player Mariana Lopa said.