Aboitiz Football Cup Launches 25th Season in Davao with Renewed Commitment
The Aboitiz Football Cup has officially kicked off its 25th season in Davao City, marking a significant milestone for the country's longest-running grassroots football competition. During a press conference held on Friday, February 13, 2026, key figures including Ernesto Ortonio Jr., president of the Davao South Regional Football Association; Welfredo Dalumpines of the Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.; Liza Kriztel Dureza-Valencia, organizer of CR7 Food Truck Football Club; Arman Valencia, tournament director of CR7 Food Truck Football Club; and Enriczar T. Tia, president and CEO of Davao Light and Power Co., Inc., led a ceremonial ball presentation to launch the event.
Expanding Grassroots Development and Community Impact
First established in 1997 in Cebu, the tournament has grown exponentially over nearly three decades, involving more than 2,000 teams and over 50,000 players nationwide. Welfredo D. Dalumpines, Impact Lead for Climate Action at Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., emphasized that Season 25 represents both longevity and a deeper purpose. "Season 25 is a milestone. It reflects our commitment to developing not only skills but also the mindset needed for national and international competition," Dalumpines stated.
Organizer Liza Kriztel Dureza-Valencia announced that the Davao leg, scheduled from February 28 to March 1 at Tionko Football Grounds, will host 90 teams with approximately 1,000 players, coaches, and supporters. Games will commence immediately after the opening ceremony and conclude with awarding ceremonies. The tournament features 13 categories, ranging from under-six (U6) to under-18 (U18), including divisions for parents. Young players will compete in development-focused formats, such as 3v3 for U6 and U7 and 5v5 for U9 and U11.
"This is important for children to experience true football early and to focus on development rather than prizes," Valencia explained. "We want longer playing time and meaningful learning for every participant." She added that live updates and schedules will be accessible through the Tournify digital platform, ensuring transparency and efficiency for all involved.
Shaping Athletes and Promoting Environmental Responsibility
Ernesto Ortonio Jr. highlighted the tournament's role in shaping disciplined athletes and responsible citizens. "Football is our mission. It teaches discipline, teamwork, and values that prepare young players for life," Ortonio said. "There is a process in developing players, starting as early as six years old." He noted that Davao has consistently produced national-level players and continues to strengthen programs through grassroots initiatives, including engagement with indigenous communities.
Enriczar T. Tia reaffirmed support for youth and community development through sports, while Engineer Reynard Jon Felix added that investing in grassroots football is an investment in Davao's future, emphasizing that sports teach discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
Season 25 features competitive U16 and U18 divisions, with champions advancing to the AFC Champions League in late May at Aboitiz Pitch, Batangas. This national competition brings top regional teams together for higher-level exposure and development.
Integrating Environmental Advocacy and Outreach Programs
Organizers also highlighted the Wasteless Campaign, which integrates environmental advocacy into the tournament. Clubs are encouraged to participate in coastal clean-up activities at Aboitiz Cleanergy Park in Punta Dumalag, promoting marine conservation, waste management, and sea turtle protection.
As part of community outreach, football clinics will be conducted in Marilog District, introducing basic skills, promoting discipline and teamwork, encouraging active lifestyles, and expanding access to sports in upland areas.
The Davao leg is organized in collaboration with the Davao South Regional Football Association and CR7 Food Truck Football Club, aligning local programs with national development standards. Major sponsor Davao Light and minor sponsor Therma South continue to support youth empowerment and sustainability goals.
With its 25th season, the Aboitiz Football Cup remains one of the region's most anticipated football festivals. Winners will receive trophies and medals, celebrating both athletic achievement and community spirit.
