• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Victorias City in Negros Occidental is hosting the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup this year, through two landmark agreements signed at Nature’s Village Resort on February 26.
The agreements include the Hall and Host City Agreement with FIFA and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), and Victorias City, represented by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez, as well as a partnership agreement between the City of Victorias and Loyola Football Club.
The agreement cements the role of Victorias City as one of the official venues for the FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup 2025, which will take place from November 21 to December 7.
Under the agreement, the Victorias City Coliseum is undergoing renovations to meet FIFA’s world-class standards, ensuring that it provides top-tier facilities for the eight participating teams from six confederations.
Mayor Javi Benitez said it is an honor for Victorias City to host the international competition. “It is truly a historic moment for our city,” Benitez said, adding that they are grateful for the opportunity to showcase their passion for sports on the world stage.
Sixteen countries, including the Philippines, are participating in the inaugural edition of the international sports competition, with the Philippine Sports Arena in Pasig City, as the other venue.
PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez praised Victorias City’s dedication and readiness to host an international sporting event, describing it as a “game-changer for grassroots football in Negros Occidental.”
“Victorias has been supportive, aggressive, and enthusiastic. We have no doubt that this will be a hosting that the world will look up to,” Gutierrez added.
PFF General Secretary Angelico Mercader was represented by Head of Grassroots Football David Javellana during the signing, along with Councilor Derek Palanca, who stood in for Vice Mayor Abelardo Bantug III.
In a separate agreement, Victorias City partnered with Loyola Football Club to further elevate its football profile.
As part of the partnership, Loyola FC will integrate ‘Victorias’ into its official team name, branding itself as “Loyola Victorias Football Club” for one football season.
This strategic move aims to boost Victorias City’s presence in professional football and inspire local athletes to engage in the sport at a higher level.
Loyola FC Owner Keith Buyco, President Bongbong Roxy Dorlas, and player Francis Tacardon expressed their excitement for the collaboration, with Negros Occidental Regional Football Association (NORFA) President Jose Miguel Valmayor welcoming the new partnership.
The signing event concluded with a ceremonial football signing, symbolizing the beginning of a new era for Victorias City in the world of futsal and football.
City officials, department heads, and representatives from FIFA, PFF, Loyola FC, and NORFA were in attendance to witness the historic occasion, underscoring the significance of the partnerships in shaping Victorias City’s sports legacy.*
