PFF holds congress in Tacloban City

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) will hold its 6th Ordinary Congress this Sunday in Tacloban City with the hope of further strengthening its grassroots and competition programs for next year and the years to come.

Though various programs have been put in place, PFF president Jose Mari Martinez said the congress will help them gather fresh ideas from the participants in their bid to intensify their drive to revive the popularity of the sport and form a highly-competitive national team for men’s and youth sides.

“We really need a concerted effort to make our various programs run smoothly. I’m confident all Member Associations will be represented since we need their inputs and cooperation,” said Martinez.

Martinez said they are now focusing their effort on their various grassroots programs since they intend to compete in various regional competitions next year, including the 2011 SEA Games.

“We don’t have a team for next month’s SEA Games due to lack of financial support but we intend to take part in major regional events starting next year,” added Martinez, who is expected to report the federation’s accomplishment for the year about to end.

The Philippines gained considerably in the latest FIFA world ranking by jumping to 155th from 190th place last year.

They are also hoping to draw plan for local tournaments next year where they hope to stage events in key regions, especially in Mindanao and Visayas. The financial status of the federation will also be discussed.

Apart from grassroots and competitions, the PFF also promises to hold more coaching and referee seminars to enhance their technical skills.

Invited to join the congress to be held at the Leyte Park Hotel are presidents (or,in their absence their General Secretary) of member associations in the country.


Source : Manila Bulletin