Government backing secures PHL’s hosting of FIFA futsal cup

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) credited strong government support as the key factor in making the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup (FFWWC) 2025 a reality.

PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez expressed gratitude during the tournament draw ceremony on Sept. 15, 2025, at the BGC Arts Center, underscoring the government’s role in securing the historic event.

“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,” Gutierrez said.

He added, “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.”

The FFWWC will be held in Pasig City from Nov. 21 to Dec. 7, 2025, marking the tournament’s first-ever staging by FIFA.

On July 30, 2025, the government formalized its support through Administrative Order No. 35, which directed the creation of an Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to oversee preparations for the event.

The task force, chaired by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), coordinates efforts among government agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders to ensure the tournament’s success.

“I cannot emphasize enough the crucial part that PSC and Chair Patrick Gregorio play in our country’s hosting of the FFWWC,” Gutierrez said in a separate statement.

“Their support has been key to bringing a world-class international tournament that is the FFWWC,” he added.

Planning sessions and coordination meetings have been ongoing throughout 2025, culminating in the high-profile draw ceremony attended by FIFA officials, foreign dignitaries, athletes, and international media.

Notable attendees included Filipina national athletes Hali Long and Vanie Gandler, Croatia women’s futsal head coach Tihana Nemčić Bojić, and Brazilian futsal legend Falcão.

In a recorded message, FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the Philippines’ successful bid and highlighted the significance of the inaugural tournament.

“The first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is truly a game-changer,” Infantino said.

“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,” he added.

Infantino credited the leadership of PFF President Gutierrez and FIFA Council Member Mariano Araneta for bringing the event to the Philippines.

He also confirmed plans to return to Manila to celebrate what he described as “a hugely significant step for your country and for us all.”