As International Women’s Month 2026 draws to a close, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), in partnership with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), proudly celebrated women’s power in football through the successful staging of AFC Women’s Football Day 2026 on International Women’s Day at the SM Mall of Asia Complex.
The event brought together more than 350 participants in a vibrant, full-day festival of football, uniting players, coaches, fans, and communities in a shared commitment to grow the women’s game. The Philippines joined a record-breaking 42 Member Associations across Asia in simultaneously hosting activities that promote inclusivity, participation, and empowerment through football.
PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez underscored the significance of the celebration and the Federation’s ongoing commitment to women’s empowerment.
“AFC Women’s Football Day is a powerful reminder of how far women’s football has come and how much further it can grow when given the right opportunities and support,” said Gutierrez.
“With the Filipinas and our futsal teams breaking new ground, we remain fully committed to building an inclusive ecosystem where every Filipina can play, lead, and succeed in football.”
This year’s celebration carried even greater significance, coming on the heels of major milestones for Philippine women’s football. The Philippine women’s national football team secured qualification for their second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup, while the Philippine women’s national futsal team achieved its best-ever campaign in the ASEAN Championship.
Across all levels, women continue to take on greater roles—not only as athletes, but also as coaches, officials, and leaders shaping the future of the sport and this has been highlighted in the ongoing PFF Futsaliga, which drew in 16 women’s teams in the seniors and U17 divisions, as well as women coaches and managers in the men’s and boys U17 tournaments.
At the heart of the celebration was a series of grassroots and community-driven activities designed to inspire and engage. The U15 Girls 8v8 Tournament at the SM MOA Sky Pitch on AFC Women’s Football Day featured ten all-girls teams from schools, clubs, and communities, as well as an all-women roster of referees and match officials, competing in a spirited yet developmental environment at the Adidas Football Park— the home of the Filipinas. The all-women roster of match officials are the following:
- Annalou Arrogante
- Jycelia May Diong
- Joma Clemente
- Cherry May Bernabe
- Adrienne Denise Gumtang
- Jeankie Pido Labrague
This tournament is not only a celebration of young women’s passion for football and the professionalism of women game officials, but is also part of PFF, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the Department of Education’s ongoing campaign to promote 8v8 football as the optimal game for developing youth athletes.
Team Bello emerged as champions after a strong campaign, defeating Bella Football Academy, 2-0, in the final. Bella FA secured first runner-up honors, while Gabaldon FC and Lobos Youth FC finished second and third runners-up, respectively. Individual excellence was also recognized, with eight standout players from each of the top teams receiving Best Player and Best Teammate awards. They are:
- Best Players: Chelsea Versales (Bello), Lucy Lumibao (Bella FA), Alex Quilet (Gabaldon FC), Joy Lim (Lobos Youth FC)
- Best Teammates: Bella Miranda (Bello), Cecilia Beñares (Bella FA), Gena Yee (Gabaldon FC), Julia Malina (Lobos Youth FC)
“In designing this event, we were intentional in creating a space for women in football,” said PFF Head for Women’s Football Development Camille Rodriguez.
“From having all-female referees in the 8v8 tournament to a predominantly female organizing team and volunteers, every detail was designed to reflect the kind of ecosystem we are building. “
Beyond competition, the event emphasized accessibility and enjoyment of the game. A beginner-level youth football clinic welcomed 35 participants from grassroots teams, introducing fundamental skills in a fun and supportive environment. Meanwhile, the Open Play Session gathered around 100 participants of all ages and experience levels—from former collegiate players to first-time footballers—highlighting the sport’s inclusive and community-driven nature.
A watch party for the Philippines vs Iran match in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia further strengthened the sense of unity, as participants and families came together to witness the Filipinas compete and win, continuing to inspire a new generation.
The success of AFC Women’s Football Day 2026 reflects the rapid growth and momentum of the women’s game in the Philippines. More importantly, it reinforces the PFF’s long-term vision of creating safe, accessible, and sustainable pathways for girls and women in football nationwide.
Mabuhay ang kababaihang futbolista! Mabuhay ang Philippine women’s football!
