Young Filipino footballers showcased their skill and determination by winning both the championship and first runner-up titles in the U12 category of the Thailand International Youth Cup held on 7 and 8 December in Bangkok. Competing against over 100 teams from 10 countries, the two teams demonstrated the strength of the country’s growing football talent.

The players are part of the Center of Excellence (COE) football program, a collaboration between the National Capital Region Football Association (NCRFA) and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF). The program focuses on transitioning young athletes from grassroots levels to elite football through advanced coaching and competitive exposure.

Prime Infra, a sponsor of the COE program, expressed pride in the young athletes’ success.

“We’ve witnessed the remarkable talent and transformation of these young athletes, and we are excited to see how they will continue to excel on the global stage,” the company said in a statement.

“We have always believed in the value of investing in youth development programs, including sports, and supporting local talents in line with our vision of building better lives for all,” Prime Infra added.

The COE program aims to nurture high-potential football players in the Philippines, equipping them with opportunities to develop their skills through top-notch coaching and international tournaments.

The NCRFA noted that its collaboration with the PFF is part of broader efforts to elevate football standards in the country. By investing in youth programs, they hope to create a strong foundation for the sport and pave the way for more Philippine teams to make their mark internationally.