Manila: The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) on Monday praised the people whose dedication, passion, and teamwork transformed the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup into a triumph not only for the Philippines but for women's futsal worldwide. The PFF has expressed its deepest gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the government's invaluable support through the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), headed by Chairperson Patrick Gregorio, the dedicated PSC staff, government personnel, and committed and auxiliary personnel.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PFF commended the 500-strong unsung heroes who contributed to the success of the event. 'With you, we showed the world that Filipinos can host a truly world-class sporting event,' said PFF president John Gutierrez in a news release on Monday. The PFF also acknowledged the support of the Philippine Olympic Committee, led by President Abraham Tolentino and FIFA Council Member Mariano 'Nonong' Araneta Jr.
"You are the true heroes of this World Cup. Thank you very much for your dedication, hard work, and perseverance," said PFF general secretary Gelix Mercader, who oversaw the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), which included around 300 volunteers, 150 LOC staff, and 100 auxiliary personnel. '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,' he added.
Gutierrez served as chairperson and Mercader as chief executive officer of the LOC. They were supported by the PFF Executive Committee with female-at-large member Isabella Fernando (government relations head), first vice president Lawrence Fortun (FFWWC2025 preparations committee), and deputy general secretary Kevin Goco (oversight committee), and UAAP Football commissioner Rely San Agustin (tournament director).
'This World Cup was the result of collective leadership and shared accountability, where every decision was guided by our responsibility to deliver an event worthy of the global stage, while ensuring the prudent use of resources afforded to us by the government. The discipline and professionalism shown by the LOC reflect the standards we intend to uphold as Philippine football continues to host and lead major international events," said Gutierrez.
