Philippine national women's football team manager Jefferson Cheng has expressed his support for girls football as Ang Liga Filipina 17 and Under starts today at the Vermosa Sports Hub in Cavite.

Cheng, a chief backer for the Filipinas, said in a statement that he is happy seeing the league help out in molding future players.

Beach Hut FC takes on the University of Makati Azzuri for the 2 p.m. curtain raiser, while Forza FC and Makati Stars close out the opening day in the 4 p.m. kick-off.

"They are doing amazing work in advancing Philippine football at the grassroots level," Cheng said as Ang Liga forges a partnership with Philippine Airport and Ground Support Solutions.

"Young footballers in the Philippines have limited opportunities to train and properly develop their skills on a regular basis compared to youth in other countries where football is a part of daily life."

"Ang Liga's effort to close that gap is laudable and deserves all our support. I thank them and congratulate them."

The league was founded last year and serves as a pre-season competition for the National Collegiate Athletic Association and University Athletic Association of the Philippines teams.