By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Kaya FC-Iloilo is back in a familiar position after bagging their third Philippines Football League (PFL) championship title on April 13, 2025, at the Biñan Football Stadium in Laguna.
Needing only one final win to cap off the season with another golden trophy, Iloilo was all gas no breaks as they blanked the Stallion Laguna FC, 2-0, to stand in the middle of the PFL podium and end a highly-competitive head-to-head title race against their arch-rivals, the Manila Digger FC.
Entering the final scheduled match day of the PFL, Kaya FC was in a must-win situation as a loss to Stallion would evaporate their hopes of raising the championship trophy, given if Manila Digger won their duel against the Loyola Victorias.
Manila Digger’s match was scheduled ahead of Kaya FC, and the Ilonggos were all eyes on the no. 2 ranked team when their game against Loyola FC started.
In just the first 45 minutes of action, Kaya FC knew they had to put on a show against Stallion Laguna. Manila Digger was already bound for a lopsided finish and wrapped up the win against Loyola with a 5-0 beating.
Now, the pressure was on Kaya FC if they could seal the season aligned with their ultimate goal. Iloilo kicked off their final match with a high-octane approach and forced Stallion Laguna to put more emphasis on their backline defense.
Kaya FC had two early attempts under 25 minutes, but Laguna came prepared and deflected their long-ranged shots to prevent first blood.
Just when Stallion thought they could rely on their gang defense on the left side, Ilonggo striker Janjan Melliza spoiled their plans and delivered the first goal for Kaya FC in the 39th minute.
The conversion was generated from Pocholo Bugas’ cross pass from the right flank, which Melliza tapped inside the penalty area for the 1-0 lead.
The chaotic goal boosted Kaya FC’s momentum in the second half as they just stomped Stallion with their relentless pace and crisp passing.
After the Melliza goal, Japanese winger Shuto Komaki then put the cherry on top for Kaya FC after doubling their lead in the 77th minute.
What a great run, and congratulations, Kaya FC-Iloilo! UNA KAYA!
