The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has assembled a formidable national women’s futsal pool, a blend of local and international talent, in preparation for the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup in China (May 6-17). This selection follows a comprehensive nationwide talent identification initiative, demonstrating the PFF’s commitment to expanding women’s futsal across the Philippines.
Driven by national team Coach Rafa Merino Rodriguez, PFF Director of Football Vince Santos, and assistant coach Aris Bocalan, the Talent ID Camps spanned key locations: Dipolog, Cebu, Davao, and the National Capital Region (NCR) from February 15-27. These camps offered aspiring athletes from over 20 Regional Football Associations a crucial opportunity to showcase their skills.
“This pool represents the culmination of a nationwide effort to discover and develop the best women’s futsal talent,” stated PFF President John Gutierrez. “We are confident that under Coach Rodriguez’s guidance, we will build a team capable of strong performances at the AFC Asian Cup and beyond.”
Approximately 180 athletes participated in the rigorous tryouts, which included assessments of technical abilities, tactical awareness, and overall performance. Notably, former national team players contributed their experience and skill.
“We’ve identified significant talent throughout these camps,” said Coach Rodriguez. “This pool, with focused development, has the potential to compete strongly against our Asian rivals. While challenging, we’ve seen players with excellent technical skills and game understanding, and we’re now focused on molding them into a cohesive, competitive team.”
The selected pool includes Sheen Borres, Judy Connoly, Alisha Del Campo, Isabella Flanigan, Cathrine Graversen, Katrina Guillo, Samantha Hughes, Rocelle Mendaño, Vrendelle Nuera, Regine Rebosura, Kayla Santiago, Dionesa Tolentin, Mykaella Abeto, Trisha Advincula, Princess Amilhamja, Joyce Gemberva, Charisa Lemoran, Alyssa Lucero, Hazel Luztan, Lanie Ortillo, Camille Rodriguez, Althea Rebosura, and Isabella Bandoja.
The team now enters intensive training, focusing on individual skills, team tactics, and cohesion. From this pool, only 14 will form the final roster for the AFC Asian Cup.
The AFC Asian Women’s Futsal Cup presents a significant challenge, but the PFF is committed to providing the necessary resources. The goal is to build a team ready to compete at the highest level, especially with the Philippines hosting the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup (November 21-December 7).
“We have assembled a team that embodies the spirit and resilience of Philippine football,” said Director of Football Vince Santos. “Our goal is to compete with the best in Asia and make our nation proud. The blend of local and international players provides a strong foundation for future success.”
The nationwide talent search has ignited renewed enthusiasm for women’s futsal in the Philippines. The PFF’s dedication to grassroots development is evident in the widespread reach of the Talent ID Camps.
The Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team has been drawn into Group B, facing Iran, Vietnam, and Hong Kong, China.