THE Philippine Football Federation (PFF) will officially launch the Philippines Football League (PFL) on April 20 with eight initial clubs seeing action this season.
The eight clubs and their nominated home stadia include: Ceres Negros FC (Panaad Football Stadium), Davao Aguilas FC (Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Stadium), Global Cebu FC (University of San Carlos Football Stadium), Ilocos United FC (President Elpidio Quirino Stadium-Vigan), JPV Marikina FC (Marikina Sports Complex), Kaya FC-Makati (University of Makati), Stallion Laguna FC (Biñan Football Stadium), and Loyola Meralco Sparks FC (Rizal Memorial Stadium).
According to the PFF, the commercialization of the PFL and its financial model was completed with the assistance of Red Card Global, an international sports marketing agency based in Singapore. The agency is also the exclusive commercial agent of the PFL for the next six years, tasked with growing the league’s commercial potential both locally and internationally.
For PFF president Mariano Araneta, “the success of the national league is very important for further growth of Philippine football. I thank all stakeholders, including the upcoming sponsors, private club investors, stadia owners, players and football fans in keeping faith with us in the PFF to have this professional football league.”
R. Sasikumar, executive chairman of Red Card Global, said they are proud to have played a part in assisting the PFF in this endeavor.
“It is our hope that this model propels Philippines football to a new level. With 100 million people in the Philippines and another 10 million outside the country, commercially this provides huge opportunities for the PFL.”
Moreover, the PFL is also set to sign terms with national broadcaster, People’s Television Network Inc. (PTV), to be the free-to-air partner for the inaugural season of the PFL.
The league’s first match is scheduled on April 29. The venue will be announced soon. (HGD)