NABUNTURAN – The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) broke ground on a new FIFA football pitch in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro today, bringing quality football facilities closer to communities in Mindanao.
PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez led the ceremony with Golden Davao RFA (GODARFA) President Dennis Bugas and Municipal Administrator Freddie Coronica.
The 8×8 half pitch will rise in Purok 18, Barangay Poblacion.
“As a former RFA official in Mindanao, I know well that this region has produced and is continuing in producing talented football talents,” said Gutierrez, alluding to his stint as General Secretary of Bukidnon Football Association.
“They exist in every corner of our country. Building quality pitches strategically designed for youth development and located in places accessible to the masses is what many young players need, and that is what we are bringing to Nabunturan.”
The Nabunturan pitch is the third pitch-building initiative by the PFF in Mindanao this month. It follows the groundbreaking of a FIFA pitch in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, two days earlier, and the inauguration of an AFC pitch in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, on November 7.
The projects are carried out in partnership with FIFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), regional football associations, and local government units.
“This would not be possible without our partners,” Gutierrez added. “We thank FIFA, GODARFA, and the local government of Nabunturan for working with us. Together, we are building a stronger football foundation from the grassroots up.”
Bugas described the groundbreaking as a dream come true for football in the province.
“It was a memorable experience, katuparan [ito] ng isang pangarap,” Bugas said. “Thank you to Sir John, the PFF, and FIFA for the realization of this project. It will have a big impact on Davao de Oro to have a pitch where we can develop more potential players to represent the national team.”
