E-Sports International, a leading builder of sports facilities in the Philippines, and Acousto-Scan, an international laboratory specializing in testing sports surfaces, are advocating for more FIFA-certified football fields in the Philippines. According to these organizations, standardized pitches are key to advancing football talent and preparing players for international competition.

In a recent briefing, both groups emphasized the importance of ensuring that football fields across the Philippines meet global standards. “Providing FIFA-certified fields to schools, cities, and communities will make an indelible impact on grassroots football,” said Anthony Apparailly, Executive Sports Director of Acousto-Scan. These fields will help aspiring athletes grow their skills on safe, internationally-standardized surfaces.

Apparailly noted that having 12 to 15 FIFA-certified fields nationwide could boost the country’s ability to host international competitions. “The Philippines can hold its own against countries like Singapore, Korea, and Malaysia in terms of quality, but there’s room for improvement in the number of fields,” he said.

Audris Romualdez, founder and managing director of E-Sports International, agreed. “If we want international athletes, we must have international sports venues. Our mission is to ensure every field we build meets global standards.”

Building the Right Way

E-Sports International takes a comprehensive approach to pitch development. The company ensures athlete safety, compliance with laboratory recommendations, and protection of the owner’s investment. This includes free maintenance for the first year and training for groundskeepers.

Pam Romualdez, E-Sports’ General Manager, stressed the importance of using FIFA-preferred products like Limonta artificial turf, which the company exclusively distributes and installs in the Philippines. “A good field is the combination of quality materials and expert installation,” she said.

A World-Class Vision

To date, E-Sports has built nine out of the 11 FIFA-certified football fields in the country, with ongoing projects in Maasin, Leyte, and Lanao del Norte. Their goal is to provide world-class facilities in every region, ensuring no athlete has to seek training abroad.

“Standardization is picking up across Asia, and the Philippines is on track,” Apparailly said, citing India’s success in field hockey as an example of how facilities can elevate sports performance.

With a mission to elevate Philippine football, E-Sports International remains committed to building venues that inspire athletes and nurture world-class talent.