Manny Pangilinan, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas chairman emeritus, could not hide his disappointment over the stunning loss of Gilas Pilipinas to host team Cambodia in the group stage of the 32nd Southeast Asian Games.

Cambodia, backed by six naturalized players, caught the nationals flatfooted en route to a 79-68 stunner on Thursday.

The beating was so bad that Pangilinan immediately took to social media to express his disgust.

• Gilas fall to retooled Cambodian side in SEA Games

“What a disgraceful game for Gilas,” said the well-know basketball patron.

"An ignominious defeat which will be etched deeply in infamy. SBP- What happened?"

It was the Philippines' first defeat in the group stage since 1997.

Gilas was supposed to be on a comeback trail after losing the men's basketball crown to Indonesia during last year's SEA Games in Hanoi.

• SEAG: Reyes expects Cambodia to be 'a handful' for Gilas

But as the loss to Cambodia has proven, it looks easier said than done.

The Gilas men return to action on Saturday against Singapore, seeking a win that will send them to the semifinals.

For more stories on the 32nd Southeast Asian Games, click here.