The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the City Government of San Juan and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) formally launched the city’s first-ever Futsal Developmental Program, opening doors for thousands of young San Juaneños to discover and develop their potential in the sport.

Leading the ceremony were San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, PSC chairman Patrick "Pato" Gregorio and PFF president John Anthony Gutierrez, who, together turned over futsal goals and balls to jumpstart the grassroots initiative. The PSC donated 20 sets of goals and 120 futsal balls, ensuring that all 21 barangays of San Juan will benefit from the program.

“This is what we want: LGUs (local government unit) collaborating with PSC and the NSA (national sports association). Stronger partnerships mean stronger programs. If the PSC is making an investment, we want the LGUs to invest as well. The collaboration is much stronger when that’s the deal,” Gregorio said.

“My vision is to establish dedicated sports clubs for every sport, in close collaboration with local government units and the Department of Education.’’

The launch drew 125 kids who participated in clinics and friendly competitions, guided by Rafa Merino Rodriguez, Head Coach of the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team.

“We don’t have land for football fields, but we have plenty of wooden basketball courts spread across 17 barangays. With the help of the PSC and PFF, we can now transform these spaces into futsal venues,’’ said Zamora, emphasizing the city’s unique advantage.

“This is our first futsal program, and we are excited for the youth and even adults who love football.”

This milestone comes on the heels of the Philippines’ successful hosting of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup last November, an event that earned the PFF dual honors at the 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards: National Sports Association of the Year and International Event of the Year.

“This is the pilot program to make futsal popular and get more kids to play the beautiful game. Thanks to Mayor Francis for embracing this initiative, and to Chairman Pato of PSC for making it possible. We hope other cities will follow San Juan’s lead,” Gutierrez said.

Also present were San Juan officials including Vice Mayor Angelo Agcaoili, councilors Macky Mathay, Herbert Chua, Francine Gil, special assistant to the mayor Rocco Zamora, and PFF technical consultant coach Bob Salvacion.