The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) brought together national athletes and young futsal hopefuls in a celebration of AFC Women’s Football Day, aiming to empower girls through sport and ignite aspirations for professional careers.
Held at San Francisco High School in Quezon City, the event connected 60 young female players with members of the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team in a day of training, competition and mentorship.
“This event underscores our commitment to promoting women’s sports and providing opportunities for young girls to excel in athletics,” said PFF President John Gutierrez. “We believe that sports play a crucial role in building confidence, character, and leadership skills.”
The celebration, organized in line with the Asian Football Confederation’s annual recognition of women’s football, featured participants from San Francisco High School, Bonifacio Memorial Elementary School, Melencio Castelo Elementary School and Carlos P. Garcia High School.
The aspiring futsal players received technical and tactical training under former national team member and coach Marigen Ariel. They later competed in a mini-futsal tournament, organized in a single round-robin format.
Sportswear brand PUMA Philippines presented awards to standout performers, adding a festive touch to the day’s activities.
A key moment was the direct interaction between the girls and national team players Vrendelle Nuera and Regine Rebosura, who shared their personal journeys and challenges in reaching the national stage.
“Being here and seeing the excitement in these girls reminds us why we play,” said Nuera. “We want them to know that this dream is possible.”
Rebosura echoed the sentiment, saying, “Futsal changed my life. I hope our stories show them that, with hard work, they too can wear the flag one day.”
The event also introduced the Safe to Play campaign, part of the PFF’s legacy program as host of the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025.
The initiative, supported by Lennon Group, promotes the creation of safe and inclusive spaces for girls in sports, addressing the physical and psychological safety of young athletes.
The Philippines will host the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup from Nov. 21 to Dec. 7, 2025.