Atty. Edwin Gastanes, one of the pillars behind the rise of Philippine football, passed away on Christmas Eve. He was 66.

Gastanes had been a dedicated and passionate sports leader. He served as secretary general of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) under former football chief Mariano “Nonong” Araneta for 10 years and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) under incumbent chief Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino for four years.

During his tenure as PFF executive, Philippine football reached greater heights as the men’s national team reached the 2019 Asian Cup while the women’s national squad made a historic appearance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

He also pumped life into the country’s football landscape by spearheading the establishment of key domestic competitions such as the Philippine Football League, Copa Paulino Alcantara, PFF Women’s League, PFF U19 Boys National Championship and the PFF E-Trophy.

The federation mourned his demise, saying that his contributions to Philippine football will serve as the legacy that the entire community will forever remember.

“We are grateful for his efforts that made a lasting impact on Philippine football,” the federation, now under the leadership of John Gutierrez, said.

“His legacy will forever be remembered in the hearts of those who had the privilege of working alongside him. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched through his service to football. Rest in peace, Atty. Ed.”

Aside from the PFF, Gastanes also made significant contributions to the local Olympic council.

As secretary general of the POC, Gastanes worked hard to help the country come up with a smooth and trouble-free hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019.

When Covid pandemic struck, he joined Tolentino and other key sports executives in making sure that athletes can safely return to training that led to a historic gold medal by weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.