The Philippine Football Federation on Tuesday celebrated the grand opening of the Mall of Asia (MOA) Football Pitch, built to FIFA-grade standards, with an especially meaningful homecoming intrasquad match featuring the Filipinas, the Philippine Women’s National Football Team.
The inauguration was spearheaded by PFF President John Gutierrez, SM Executive Committee and National University Chairman Hans Sy, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim, Filipinas members Sarina Bolden, Quinley Quezada, Jacklyn Sawiki, Chandler and Olivia McDaniel, National Team Director Freddy Gonzalez, and Team Manager Mikkel Paris.
This event highlighted the global reach of the team, showcasing players who have traveled from around the world to represent the Philippines, and was witnessed by a vibrant crowd of over 1,000 attendees.
The MOA Football Pitch, with its FIFA-grade artificial turf and impressive amenities, provides a crucial platform for the development of our athletes, from grassroots to the national team.
“This facility is a significant leap forward for Philippine football,” stated PFF President John Gutierrez.
“The PFF extends its heartfelt gratitude to SM for their commitment to our sport. This pitch will serve as a vital training and competition venue, enabling our players to reach their full potential. Today’s Filipinas intrasquad match was particularly special, as it brought together players from across the globe, a true testament to the unifying power of football. The overwhelming support from the fans, the football community, families, and the media today reinforces the growing passion for the sport in the Philippines.”
The celebration brought together a diverse audience, including passionate football fans, members of the wider football community, proud family and friends of the Filipinas, and representatives from various media outlets, all eager to witness this historic moment. Following the exhilarating exhibition match, the Filipinas generously took time to meet with fans, sign jerseys, and create lasting memories, further cementing their connection with the community.
This event also marked the culmination of the Filipinas’ intensive training camp, held from February 17th to 25th, in preparation for crucial upcoming international tournaments, including the highly anticipated AFF Championships and the Southeast Asian Games.
