PFF's World Cup Gamble Turns Into Award-Winning Triumph

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The Philippine Football Federation’s bet on hosting the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup has paid off big. The PFF walked away as the biggest winner at the 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.

The federation claimed both National Sports Association of the Year and International Event of the Year. Both honors trace directly to its hosting of the tournament at the Philsports Arena.

The Philippine Football Federation receives recognition after earning two honours at the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.

PFF’s Big Bet Pays Off

Under PFF president John Gutierrez, the tournament proved to be more than just a sporting event. It became a showcase for the country’s hosting capabilities.

PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio, guest of honor at the awards night, praised the achievement. “The FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup was a celebration of how sports can bring nations together,” he said.

Gregorio added that the event captured the synergy between tourism and athletic development. The awards night was organized by the Sports Tourismo Alliance Committee and presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.

Other federations shared the spotlight too. World Archery Philippines was named Emerging NSA of the Year, while the Tour of Luzon earned Domestic Event of the Year.

Sports Tourism Boom Extends Beyond Football

Gregorio, who chairs the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee, pointed to government backing as a key driver. “President Marcos really believes that sports tourism is a strategy,” he said.

He cited recent events like the Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships in Boracay. The Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships was another example he pointed to.

Beyond football, the ripple effects reached tourism and hospitality too. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services all benefited from the influx of athletes and fans.

Young Filipino players, meanwhile, gained rare exposure by competing on home soil. The momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

The Philippines will host the World Surf League Championship Tour from October 31 to November 10. The Asian U19 Sepak Takraw Championships and East Asia Baseball Cup will follow before year’s end.