AFC Annual Awards 2014 set in Manila

IN ANOTHER clear recognition of Philippine football’s growing status in the continent, the Asian Football Confederation has decided to stage its Annual Awards Gala in November next year for the first time in Manila.

No less than AFC president Shaikh Salman Ebrahim Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain made the announcement Thursday in a press conference at Makati Shangri-La.

One of the most highly anticipated events of the AFC calendar, the Awards Gala celebrates the accomplishments of the finest footballers of the continent as well as coaches, clubs and national teams.

The Awards Gala, which coincides with the 60th anniversary of the confederation, is tentatively slated in the last week of November.

Shaikh Salman said holding the awards in the Philippines is only fitting as the AFC was founded in Manila in 1954.

“It will be a great celebration and great for all of us to be back here, where the AFC was founded,” said Salman, who also explored the possibility of partnerships with the Philippine Sports Commission.

“It’s good that we’re bringing the awards to different countries, get to know them and share the AFC’s success. I’m sure the Philippines will be a great host.”

Salman, in his first visit to Manila since his election last May, said about 500 football officials and dignitaries from all over the world are expected to attend the awards night.

Among those invited are International Football Federation president Sepp Blatter and other continental football presidents.

“It’s a great honor for the Philippines, not only for football, hosting such a prestigious event,” said Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta.