PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), through the MVP Sports Foundation (MVPSF) bolster their support for the Philippine Women’s National Football Team after their stellar performance at the recent Asian Cup qualifiers.

“We are very proud of our Women’s National Football team who demonstrated their strength, resilience, and determination to win despite the challenges brought about by the global pandemic. This milestone is a step toward our goal -- for the Philippines to qualify in our first ever FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 in Australia,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO. Panlilio is also the President of MVPSF and the First Vice President of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

MVPSF has been supporting the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) through its various programs. Following the breakthrough win of the Philippine Azkals in 2010, the MVP Group decided to invest in football across the country through the PFF-SMART National Club Championships 2011-2015.  The foundation then began its support to of the PFF's Women's National Team program when the organization decided to invest in Talent Identification of heritage Filipinas playing in the U.S., the FIFA Women's World #1 ranked country.

In addition, MVPSF has been actively promoting football at the grassroots level, running leagues for U7, U9, and developing young talents with U11, U13 regional/provincial cluster festivals for both boys and girls.

MVPSF also believes in the PFF Coaches' Education initiatives including the PFF-MVPSF National Coaches' Convention to update our local instructors and trainers with the latest trends, Technical and Tactical discussions from FIFA and World Football experts who share knowledge and best practice, to prepare them for developing elite players capable of competing in the international arena.

“We believe in the potential of our athletes who are training under PFF. We also want to build on our network and bring in Filipinas all over the world to train and compete with international athletes as we actively develop and promote the beautiful game of football in the Philippines,” said Jude Turcuato, FVP and Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart, and Executive Director at MVPSF.

This program is part of the PLDT Group’s contribution to UN SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. PLDT, Smart, and the MVPSF have always been at the forefront of sports development in the Philippines by empowering Filipino athletes as they represent the country in competitions worldwide.