Final answer:
Basketball's popularity in the Philippines is deeply entrenched in the country's historical ties with the United States, the simplicity and accessibility of the sport, and the path it provides to both community belonging and potential economic advancement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Basketball is considered the number 1 sport in the Philippines due to multiple social, cultural, and economic factors. The historical influence of the United States, where basketball was invented, contributed to the widespread popularity of the sport in the Philippines. Additionally, the sport requires minimal space and resources; in densely populated cities or economically challenged areas, basketball courts provide a feasible venue for sports and community gatherings.
The commercial success of athletes from basketball-dominated regions, like Kobe Bryant, serves as inspiration and provides a tangible path to economic security for many aspiring athletes. This allure is compounded in the Philippines by a population with a strong command of English and a base of professional skills, which fits into the global sports market. Moreover, basketball offers a sense of community and identity, often lacking in rapidly urbanizing spaces, and its simplicity allows for the game's ubiquitous presence. A basketball hoop and ball are all that's required to play, making it accessible across socioeconomic boundaries.