THE future of Philippine football relies on the implementation of its grassroots program and the country’s inclusion in the Fifa Council will be a big boost.

Ricky Yanson, president of Negros Occidental Football Association, said he believes the election of Philippine Football Federation president Mariano Araneta into the world’s football council is a big help.

“With him in Fifa, he can get lots of help for our grassroots program, though it’s already there but we need to improve it and boost it a little more,” Yanson added.

“The program is already there. It’s challenging for the Philippines since we are an archipelago. The importance is cooperation, not only for the players, but for the stakeholders – the team owners, the local government units and the parents. Without their support, the grassroots program will not prosper,” he said.

Yanson said the successful stint of the Philippine U15 girls’ team in the recent 2017 Asean Football Federation U15 Girls Championship held in Laos is “a testament that the grassroots in the country has already improved” not only in the boys, but also in the female side.

“Their success will inspire our players to improve and continue to participate in many of our tournaments,” he added.

The young Pinay booters finished second behind traditional powerhouse team of Thailand, losing 2-6 in the finals.

In the elimination round, the Filipinas were undefeated with victories over Indonesia 2-0; Cambodia, 3-0; and Singapore, 3-0 in the elimination round.

A 3-2 come-from-behind triumph over Myanmar in the semifinals gave them a well-deserved finish. (HGD)