US-bound Chieffy not abandoning PH Azkals

National team co-skipper Chieffy Caligdong has allayed fears he may no longer suit up for the Azkals following his request for a discharge from the Phil-ippine Air Force due to personal reasons.

The fleet-footed winger played his last game for the Airmen in a 2-1 win over Navy Saturday in the United Football League at University of Makati field.

The 29-year-old Caligdong has requested for a discharge because of his family’s impending migration to the United States.

“My priority is my family,” said Caligdong, a father of two. “My decisions will be based on what’s good for them.”

But Caligdong said the process of migrating to the US could take time and he might still be available for upcoming tournaments of the national team, particularly the Suzuki Cup.

Caligdong has been the only homegrown player to figure in the starting eleven of the Azkals recently as the team has benefited from the influx of overseas-bred Filipinos.

He said his discharge from the Air Force would open up possibilities, including playing for another UFL club next season.

Among the clubs that have expressed interest in his services are Loyola Meralco, Kaya and Penson Stallion Giligans—a team based in Iloilo, Caligdong’s home province.

Caligdong has actually been hounded by an assortment of injuries this year and said the break could serve him in good stead.