PFF counting on government support for successful FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup hosting

FIFA Council Member Mariano V. Araneta, Philippine Sports Commision Chairman Patrick Gregorio, Philippine Football Federation President John Anthony Gutierrez (c/o the PFF)

In addressing those present during the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup draw last September 15 at the BGC Arts Center, Philippine Football Federation President John Gutierrez expressed his gratitude to the Philippine government for their support for the competition.

Gutierrez says, "Together with FIFA Council Member Mariano V. Araneta, we at the Philippine Football Federation are very grateful to the Philippine Government for making the hosting of the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 possible. We thank his Excellency President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for believing in the legacy that this hosting will bring to our country; Philippine Sports Commission, especially its Chair, Mr. Patrick Gregorio, for the pro-active support and championing this event as a major boost in sports tourism, and Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino for his endorsement,.  Without this, the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup Philippines 2025 would probably be just a dream."

This was made possible through Administration Order No. 35, which Marcos Jr. authorizes the the establishment of an Inter-Agency Task Force that would ensure a successful hosting of FFWWC 2025, under the leadership of the PSC. Said task force will be responsible for coordinating the efforts of the various government agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders involved in the planning, organization, and implementation of the inaugural edition of the tournament.

Gutierrez very much appreciates the efforts of the PSC in leading the task force. He says, "I cannot emphasize enough the crucial part that PSC and Chair Patrick Gregorio play in our country’s hosting of the FFWWC. Their support has been key to bringing a world-class international tournament that is the FFWWC."

The recently-concluded draw was the latest major endeavour of the task force, which drew attendance from FIFA officials, representatives from the sixteen participating nations, members of the media, as well as the special guests for the occasion, Hali Long, Vanie Gandler, Croatia women's national futsal team head coach, Tihana Nemčić Bojić, and Brazilian futsal legend Falcão.

Whilst FIFA President Gianni Infantino was unable to make it to Manila, a recorded video from him was played, highlighting the federation's role as the football association that landed the bid to host the inaugural edition of the FFWWC, and reiterated the importance of the competition in developing futsal and football in the region, particularly the Philippines.

He says, "The first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is truly a game-changer. It finally gives the world’s top women’s futsal players the global stage that they deserve. But it will also shape the futsal players of tomorrow by inspiring so many young people. Led by PFF President, my friend, John Gutierrez, as well as former PFF President and current FIFA Council Member, my friend, as well, Mariano Araneta, in a true team effort that has led to this proud day (of the draw ceremony) for you all and for us all."

Infantino adds that he will be in the country for the competition, and says in his words, "celebrate this hugely significant step for your country and for us all."