Philippine gaming regulator PAGCOR says it has pledged an initial Php5 million (US$86,300) to support the country’s national women’s football team, the Filipinas, in the upcoming 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. The event runs from 1 to 21 March.
The financial assistance follows a recent Supreme Court ruling directing PAGCOR to remit 5% of its gross revenues to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
In response, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco said that, as a result, more resources are being made available for national sports programs.
“Beyond compliance, we believe in actively backing Filipino athletes who bring pride and recognition to the country,” he said.
The Filipinas last year won the Philippines’ first-ever Southeast Asian Games gold medal in women’s football, prompting Tengco to cite the importance of investing in national pride.
“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.”
The funding will, PAGCOR explained, help cover expenses for training camps, international friendlies and other preparatory activities leading up to the Australia tournament. The campaign also serves as a key pathway to global competitions like the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“We are grateful to PAGCOR for stepping up at a crucial time in our preparations,” stated PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez.
“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.”
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