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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider PFF praises unsung heroes of Futsal World Cup hosting

PFF praises unsung heroes of Futsal World Cup hosting

Published Jan 4, 2026 01:48 pm

At A Glance

  • The Philippines' hosting of the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup™ showcased more than the nation's capacity to stage a world-class sporting event. It revealed the heart of the Filipino spirit: shared pride, collective energy, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting women's sports from the grassroots to the global stage.
The Philippines’ hosting of the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup™ showcased more than the nation’s capacity to stage a world-class sporting event. It revealed the heart of the Filipino spirit: shared pride, collective energy, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting women’s sports from the grassroots to the global stage.
The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) honored the remarkable individuals whose dedication, passion, and teamwork transformed this historic inaugural event into a triumph not only for the Philippines, but for women’s futsal worldwide. With the collective effort of all the hardworking women and men who lent their time, strength, intellect, and resources, this World Cup is leaving a lasting legacy forged by thousands of hands and hearts.
The PFF also expresses its deepest gratitude to His Excellency President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for government’s invaluable support through the Philippine Sports Commission headed by Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, the dedicated PSC staff, government personnel, committed and auxiliary personnel in ensuring the successful staging of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025.
“We commend and congratulate the 500 strong unsung heroes who made the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 a success,” said PFF President John Gutierrez. “With you, we showed the world that Filipinos can host a truly world-class sporting event.”
The PFF is also grateful for the support of the Philippine Olympic Committee led by President Abraham Tolentino. Special thanks is given to FIFA Council Member Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Jr. whose support boosted confidence for the hosting of the inaugural event.
Behind every match, every cheer, and every breakthrough were people whose devotion will inspire generations to come.
PFF General Secretary Gelix Mercader, who oversaw the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), extended profound thanks to around 300 volunteers, 150 LOC staff, and 100 auxiliary personnel whose commitment and warmth powered the tournament’s success.
“Kayo po ang mga tunay na bayani ng World Cup na ito. Maraming salamat po sa inyong dedikasyon, sipag at tibay,” he said.
“It was very humbling to host the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup—and even more humbling to see it succeed. We dedicate this to all the futsal and football players across the country who made this possible,” Mercader added.
PSC: A Driving Force
Even newly appointed, Gregorio quickly became a driving force behind the tournament, championing the event and ensuring critical support reached the PFF without delay. His leadership helped set the tone for the unity and efficiency that defined this World Cup.
Alongside Chair Gregorio were Commissioners Walter Torres, Bong Coo, Edward Hayco, Matthew Gaston, and Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy, who helped lead the government's Inter-Agency Task Force with PSC as Chair.
Having seen the impact and potential of futsal’s growth through this world-class event, the PSC is studying the designation of the PhilSports Arena as a permanent futsal venue. As the sole competition hall of FFWWC25, it was transformed into a world-class pitch. It is a “chance to build something big and lasting.”
The Government Inter-Agency Task Force : Bayanihan at its finest
The PSC-led Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) ensured that all government-related requirements of the tournament were met. This strong inter-agency cooperation helped create an environment of bayanihan between and among government agencies, PSC and the Local Organizing Committee.
Among the government agencies in the IATF were DILG, DOT , DFA, DOF, DBM, DOH, DICT , DPWH, DOTr, PNP , BOI, MMDA, NICA, NBI, IPOPh, PCO.
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was overseen by PFF’s top management, with Gutierrez as Chair and Mercader as CEO. They were supported by the PFF Executive Committee with Female–at-Large Member Isabella Fernando as Government Relations Head, and PFF First Vice President Lawrence Fortun in the FFWWC2025 Preparations Committee.
PFF Deputy General Secretary Kevin Goco also served in the oversight committee while UAAP Football Commissioner Rely San Agustin was
Tournament Director in the preparatory stage of the event.
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