Philippines makes history with first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup — PFF credits government support

The Philippines is set to make history as it prepares to host the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, aiming not only to deliver a world-class tournament but also to showcase that the nation can compete with some of the sport’s elite teams.

Philippine Football Federation (PFF) president John Gutierrez expressed gratitude to the government on Wednesday, September 17, for its support in bringing the competition to the country. The event will take place in Pasig City, Manila, from November 21 to December 7.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier issued Administrative Order No. 35, establishing an Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to ensure the tournament’s success. Chaired by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the IATF is tasked with coordinating national and local government agencies, private stakeholders, and organizers in preparing for the historic event.

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Gutierrez credited PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio for playing a central role in the country’s hosting efforts.

The groups are now locked in for the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, which is set to take place this November here in the Philippines.#FutsalWWC pic.twitter.com/belkdJiIaR

— Archive (@ArchiveInt) September 15, 2025

“I cannot emphasize enough the crucial part that PSC and chairman Patrick Gregorio play in our country’s hosting of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup. Their support has been key to bringing a world-class international tournament to the Philippines,” Gutierrez said.

The tournament draw was held at the BGC Arts Center in Taguig on Monday, September 15, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and several international officials in attendance.

“The first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is truly a game-changer. It finally gives the world’s top women’s futsal players the global stage they deserve while inspiring the next generation of athletes,” Infantino said. “Led by PFF president John Gutierrez and FIFA council member Mariano Araneta, this is a proud moment for Philippine football.”

The Filipinas were drawn into Group A alongside world No. 6 Argentina, world No. 14 Poland, and world No. 31 Morocco. The tournament will feature 16 teams competing in group and knockout stages, all hosted in Pasig.

This marks the Philippines’ second World Cup appearance this decade, following the women’s national team’s participation in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where striker Sarina Bolden secured the country’s first-ever World Cup victory against hosts New Zealand.

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