The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has been given approval by the Inter Agency Task Force (IATF) to resume training sessions for the Philippines Football League (PFL) clubs. This is a pivotal development in anticipation of the commencement of the PFL Season 2020.
PFF President Mariano Araneta, Jr. has confirmed that the league sponsor, Qatar Airways, has reaffirmed its dedication to the PFL upon its resumption. The airline had previously entered into a three-year partnership with the PFF in January 2020, cementing its role as the Title Sponsor and Official Airline Partner of PFL.
Araneta stated, “Qatar Airways has already remitted 50% of its sponsorship of the PFL for 2020. The collaboration with Qatar Airways is a positive advancement for the progression of football; they have honored their commitment to support Philippines football.”
Atty. Edwin Gastanes, the PFF general secretary, disclosed that the league will now be officially known as “The Philippines Football League brought to you by Qatar Airways.” He highlighted Qatar Airways’ continued support for the upcoming PFL Season 2020.
As part of the preparations for the club’s training resumption, the PFF conducted an RT-PCR/swab test at the PFF House of Football in Pasig City for PFF staff and PFL clubs. PFF Commissioner Coco Torre expressed satisfaction with the testing process and confirmed that all was in order following the approval of IATF to resume training.
The PFF-owned National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite has been designated as the venue for club training. Clubs are also permitted to propose alternative training venues, provided they adhere to the protocols established by the PFF.
To address the uncertainty surrounding the start date of the league, PFL is continuously revising tournament regulations for the upcoming season. According to Torre, the competition will now be a single round-robin tournament in order to accommodate the 2020 league season within the football calendar.
In addition to the logistical preparations, Torre emphasized the league’s efforts to enhance the profile of the PFL. He stressed the need for a more competitive and enthralling league by attracting more clubs and sponsors, as well as the importance of raising awareness and building brand equity.
The collaboration between the PFF, PFL, and Qatar Airways, as well as the proactive measures taken by the league’s officials, demonstrate their dedication to rejuvenating football in the Philippines. With the support of a reputable sponsor and a strategic plan to enhance the league’s appeal, the PFL is making significant strides towards its resurgence.
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