Cariño vows to lead Filipinos to SEAG football glory

Ateneo de Manila University midfielder Dov Cariño is on a mission to help the national men’s U23 football team finally secure a gold medal in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games next week in Thailand.

Already seasoned from competing in major regional tournaments like the 32nd SEA Games and the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, Cariño is determined to turn the country’s long-standing near-misses into triumph.

Cariño, who has netted five goals for the Blue Eagles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88, praised the squad’s atmosphere and training quality, highlighting the players’ readiness for the challenge ahead.

“Preparations for the SEA Games have been great. Training has been top quality, and the squad’s morale is very positive,” the 21-year-old standout said.

“The goal of the U23 team in this edition of the SEA Games is definitely to go home with gold. We believe that we have the capacity to do so, and anything less would be disappointing.”

It’s been a whirlwind few months for Cariño, who has been a consistent presence in international U23 competitions such as the ASEAN U23 Mandiri Cup 2025 and the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers, all while fulfilling his commitments with Ateneo.

As the Blue Eagles’ captain, he has steered the team to fourth in the standings, keeping them on track for a Final Four appearance when Season 88 resumes next month. Off the pitch, Cariño also balances his academic responsibilities while attending the national team’s training camp.

“Playing in UAAP this year has helped me get physically and mentally ready for these international tournaments,” Cariño said.

“The intensity of the games has helped me get in shape to represent the country and given me a chance to work on parts of my game that needed improvement.”

Fortunately, Cariño’s packed schedule has been manageable.

“Luckily, none of the three commitments clash. We played our last UAAP game just before camp started,” he added.

“Academically, I’ve still been able to study for and take my finals to the best of my abilities. I’m making sure everything is on track in school while focusing on preparing for the SEA Games.”

The Philippines has yet to reach the podium of the prestigious biennial meet despite numerous attempts.

But Cariño is confident that this batch of players can break the dry spell. Personally, he’s ready to give everything to make it happen.

“I will give the team my all when I get the chance to play,” he said.

“I want to leave the field knowing I’ve done everything I could. Every game, I’ll play with the mindset that I’ve given my absolute best.”