Bacolod Elite Heads to Thailand for Int’l Football Festival

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By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod Football League (BFL) Elite is set to compete in the Bangkok International Youth Football Festival (BIYFF) 7’s in Bangkok, Thailand, on Feb. 22 to 23.

The team, consisting of 36 top players born in 2009, 2011, and 2013, was selected from BFL Seasons 1 to 5. It is composed of players from various football clubs and schools in Bacolod.

The delegation is scheduled to fly to Bangkok on Feb. 20.

Jeffrey Velez, chairman of the Bacolod Football League and head of the delegation, emphasized that the trip is not just about competition but also about showcasing Bacolod’s football talent on the international stage.

“This trip is more than just a competition—it’s a symbol of pride for Bacolod football and an incredible opportunity for our players to grow,” he said.

The team has received full support from Negros Occidental Regional Football Association (NORFA) president Jose Miguel Valmayor and general secretary Gus Rivas.

To rally support, the team hosted a “Dinner for a Cause” on Feb. 8 at Hunasan, where family and friends showed their encouragement.

The Department of Education-Bacolod acknowledged the students’ participation in the international tournament and expressed its full support during a courtesy call on Feb. 17.

The BIYFF 7’s, organized by the Bangkok Soccer League, will take place at KMITL University in Bangkok. The tournament aims to promote competitive football and foster international friendships.