Ceres can keep AFC Cup status despite new ownership

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/ CERES-NEGROS FC

The Philippine Football Federation sees no complications on the impending ownership and management changes at Ceres-Negros FC in relation to its 2020 AFC Cup campaign, which is set to resume in September in Vietnam.

The three-time Philippines Football League champions told the PFF on Wednesday they are currently in talks with investors who will take over management and ownership from owner Leo Rey Yanson.

Yanson is letting go of his club after eight glorious years, highlighted by three Philippines Football League crowns, an AFC Cup Asean zone title and a Copa Paulino Alcantara trophy.

PFF general secretary Ed Gastanes said the federation will act on the status of Ceres-Negros once negotiations with the new management are finalized.

“The PFF will continue to help its participating clubs represent the country in the AFC Cup,” said Gastanes in a conference call Wednesday.

“Considering the pandemic, (affecting Ceres-Negros FC), the AFC should look at it with kind eyes. But of course, the PFF will make the appropriate representations before the AFC regarding this.”

Gastanes said the case of changing ownership and club name similar to that of Ceres is not new, citing the case of Global-Cebu, which changed owners and is now just using Global as club name in the PFL.

“It is actually in the guidelines of our franchise agreement for PFL clubs,” said Gastanes. “These things happen. They (Ceres) just have to go through the process and submit the proper documentation.”

Ceres is currently on top of Group G in the AFC Cup, winning two of its first three matches. Based on the latest schedule released by the AFC, Ceres will play its remaining group matches in Vietnam from Sept. 23 to 29.

“We should watch out for the next communication and we will be talking to both parties seriously also so that whatever plans they have, whatever PFF and PFL management can do, we will be there to help,” Gastanes said.