The Philippine Football Federation welcomed the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Original Trophy over the past two days from 01-02 March 2023 in Manila.
The trophy was first received by the embassies of the host countries Australia and New Zealand, which was graced by PFF general secretary Atty. Edwin Gastanes, Australia Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency HK Yu, PSM, and New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Peter Kell.
It was followed by the showpiece event at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City where the trophy was unveiled in front of all fans and stakeholders.
“It is a great honor for the country as one of the stops of the most coveted prize in women’s football, the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Original Trophy,” said Gastanes in his opening remarks. “The presence of the trophy here in Manila is symbolic to the strides that Philippine football has made, particularly the Philippine Women’s National Team, the Filipinas, over the last few years. This was once a dream for us, but in four months time, our Women’s National Team will make it a reality.”
Various activities were also held during the event for the fans including face painting sessions, one versus one (1v1) football, TikTok skills challenge, and target shooting. Fans also had an opportunity to have their photo taken with the original trophy.
Philippine Women’s National Team players Inna Palacios, Hali Long, Alisha del Campo, Isabella Flanigan, and Chantelle Maniti, as well as members of the Philippine Under-20 Women’s National Team also attended the trophy tour alongside the coaching staff led by Team Manager Jefferson Cheng, PWNT assistant coach and PHI U20 WNT head coach Nahuel Arrarte.
After the public event, the trophy was graced by Ranking State Officials led by Senator Pilar Juliana Cayetano, Governor Dakila Cua of Quirino Province, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy, Jr.
