The Philippine Football Federation Executive Committee approved the appointment of Angelico “Gelix” Mercader as the new PFF General Secretary during its meeting last 16 December 2023 in Pasig City.
The appointment of Mercader is among the first key decisions made by the administration of PFF president John Gutierrez and signifies the transition of the new administration ahead of the coming year.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Gelix Mercader as new PFF general secretary,” said Gutierrez, who endorsed Mercader’s appointment to the Executive Committee.
“He brings with him the knowledge and experience of empowering stakeholders in promoting and developing football in the country. I have been working closely with him in the past few months and saw up close his leadership skills and work ethic.”
As General Secretary, Mercader, who is also a former PFF Media Officer, will be tasked to handle PFF’s day-to-day administrative activities, working closely with the president. Mercader has experience working with both non-profit organizations and government.
“It is an honor to be appointed as the general secretary of the Philippine Football Federation,” said Mercader. “I thank PFF President John Gutierrez and the PFF Executive Committee for the opportunity to serve Philippine football. I am grateful for the trust they have given to me in being part of the PFF as we usher in a new era in Philippine football.”
After his two month mandate, former acting PFF general secretary Coco Torre will continue focusing on his role as PFF Head of Competitions and Philippines Football League Commissioner.
Torre said he is excited to work with Mercader as PFF braces for a jam packed year for the Competitions Department with the Under-16 and Under-19 National Championships, as well as the PFF Women’s League, Copa Paulino Alcantara, and the newly expanded Philippines Football League all kicking off next year.
“The past two months have been very fulfilling working as the PFF general secretary,” said Torre, who spearheaded the 10K Strong campaign during the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers last month. “With the new administration led by President John and Sir Gelix, I am very excited for the coming year as football competitions. We have a busy year ahead with the 14-team Philippines Football League, the U16 and U19 tournaments, the Copa Paulino Alcantara, and the PFF Women’s League all slated.”