PAGCOR boosts Filipinas’ Asian Cup bid

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has pledged an initial P5 million to the national women’s football team in support to its campaign in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia from 1 to 21 March.

The financial assistance will be coursed through the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), a very positive development since the Filipinas are coming off a historic campaign in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, where they emerged with the country’s first ever gold medal.

PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer Alejandro Tengco said supporting national athletes who bring pride and honor to the country is both a responsibility and an investment.

“Our athletes carry the Philippine flag onto the world stage, and their victories inspire millions of Filipinos,” Tengco said.

“When they succeed, the entire nation shares in that achievement. It is only fitting that we provide them with the support they need to train properly and compete at the highest levels.”

Tengco added that that PAGCOR strengthened its support for sports development following a Supreme Court ruling directing the agency to remit the Philippine Sports Commission’s (PSC) five percent share based on its gross revenues.

“With our increased remittances to the PSC, more resources are being made available for national sports programs,” he said. “Beyond compliance, we believe in actively backing Filipino athletes who bring pride and recognition to the country.”

For the PFF, the funding will help cover expenses for training camps, international friendlies and other preparatory activities leading up to the Australia tournament which will feature Asia’s top women’s teams.

The Australian campaign also serves as a key pathway to major international competitions like the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup that will be held in Brazil. If ever, it will be the second time for the Filipinas to see action in the World Cup after that memorable 2023 stint in New Zealand, where they posted a 1-0 win over the Kiwis.

PFF president John Gutierrez welcomes PAGCOR’s support and underscored the importance of sustained backing from both government and private institutions.

“We are grateful to PAGCOR for stepping up at a crucial time in our preparations,” Mr. Gutierrez said during a courtesy call on Mr. Tengco at the PAGCOR Corporate Office in Pasay City on Wednesday.

“Competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup requires significant resources for high-level training and international exposure,” he said. “Continued support from our partners ensures that our athletes are fully equipped to compete with Asia’s best.”