The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has committed an initial P5 million to support the Filipinas as they prepare for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, scheduled for March 1–21, 2026.
The financial assistance through the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) comes as the Filipinas build momentum following their historic win at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, earning the country’s first-ever SEA Games gold medal in women’s football.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said supporting national athletes who bring honor to the country is both a responsibility and an investment in national pride.
“Our athletes carry the Philippine flag onto the world stage, and their victories inspire millions of Filipinos,” Mr. Tengco said.
“When they succeed, the entire nation shares in that achievement. It is only fitting that we provide them with the support they need to train properly and compete at the highest levels.”
Alejandro H. Tengco
Mr. Tengco said that PAGCOR strengthened its support for sports development following a Supreme Court ruling directing the agency to remit the Philippine Sports Commission’s (PSC) five percent share based on PAGCOR’s gross revenues.
“With our increased remittances to the PSC, more resources are being made available for national sports programs,” he said. “Beyond compliance, we believe in actively backing Filipino athletes who bring pride and recognition to the country.”
For the PFF, the funding will help cover expenses for training camps, international friendlies and other preparatory activities leading up to the Australia tournament which will feature Asia’s top women’s teams.
The Australian campaign also serves as a key pathway to global competitions like the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez welcomed PAGCOR’s support and underscored the importance of sustained backing from both government and private institutions.
“We are grateful to PAGCOR for stepping up at a crucial time in our preparations,” Mr. Gutierrez said during a courtesy call on Mr. Tengco at the PAGCOR Corporate Office in Pasay City on Wednesday.
“Competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup requires significant resources for high-level training and international exposure,” he said. “Continued support from our partners ensures that our athletes are fully equipped to compete with Asia’s best.”
