The Senate on Monday, August 7, adopted a resolution commending “Filipinas”—the Philippine delegation at the FIFA Women’s World Cup—for their historic win against New Zealand.
(MB Online File Photo)
It was Sen. Pia Cayetano who sponsored Senate Resolution No. 80 and which was later adopted by the members of te Senate. Cayetano is head of the Philippine delegation.
In the resolution, the Senate said acknowledged and celebrated “the exceptional achievements of Filipino athletes who have brought honor and glory to our nation.”
“This triumphant achievement resonates deeply with the Filipino people, as it not only showcases the team’s prowess on the global stage but also symbolizes the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Philippines,” the resolution stated.
During the plenary session, Cayetano how the “Filipinas” took the world and the national team by surprised when they clinched their first win with a full-time score of 1-0 last July 25 at the Wellington Stadium.
She also gave Sarina Bolden, who scored the historic goal, special recognition. The resolution also recognized the support and expertise of Filipinas coach Alen Stajcic and team manager Jefferson Cheng.
“The historic first goal sparked a thrilling atmosphere of pure joy and pride among Filipinos around the world, especially in the stadium where our kababayans made their presence felt. Outnumbered as we were, there was no way of not being heard. And I asked the girls if they heard the cheers of the Filipinos and their answer was yes, right? And even those from far away, they knew were cheering in the watch parties, in our own Senate lounge cheering for them. So that was a special day for us, your honors, in Wellington,” Cayetano narrated.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said the “Filipinas” has converted millions of Filipino sports fans to being football lovers.
“We may have bowed out of the competition, but our national team have won the hearts of legions of football fans all over the world. Their names are already etched in history, and we will be forever grateful to them,” Villanueva said.