(L-R) Philippine Women’s Football Team members Inna Palacios, Anicka Castañeda, Camille Rodriguez, Chandler McDaniel, Olivia McDaniel, Sara Castañeda, Hali Long, and PFF President Mariano “Nonong” Araneta (left center), pay courtesy visit to PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez (right center) at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Malate, Manila last February 14, 2022. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Pulling off a master stroke by bringing Team Philippines at football’s grandest stage, the national women’s football team is entitled to collect P1.250 million worth of special incentives from the government through the Philippine Sports Commission.
The PSC board unanimously agreed to shell out the bonus to recognize the significance of the squad’s breakthrough performance during the Asian Cup and the Filipino lady booters eventual qualification to the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup.
“I am proud of our women football team members. We met them yesterday (Monday) and we can feel their humility and strong team spirit. I think this contributed much to their success, among other factors,’’ said PSC Chairman William “Butch’’ Ramirez.
The 23 players, including two reserves, will each receive P50,000 for reaching the semifinals of the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup held in India and making it to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year.
Ramirez, together with PSC Commissioners Celia Kiram and Arnold Agustin, warmly welcomed Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong’’ Araneta Jr. and several members of the national squad during the agency’s flag-raising ceremony.
Also in attendance during the flag-raising at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex were team co-captain Hali Long, Chandler and Olivia McDaniel, Camille Rodriguez, Anicka and Sara Castaneda and Inna Palacios.
“This is one of the pinnacles of our experience. We couldn’t have done it without the PSC’s support and all of you behind the scenes. You are all part of this achievement,’’ said Long.
Ramirez likewise lauded the leadership of the PFF, its officials and Australian coach Alen Stajcic “for ensuring that each of our athletes are bringing their best performance on the world stage.’’
