By Princess Haynee B. Pangcatan
MSU Intern
A group of young footballers from different schools in Cagayan de Oro is heading to Bali, Indonesia this July — not for vacation, but to carry the Philippine flag in the 2025 International Football Championship (IFC).
Higala Football Club’s under-13 team has been officially invited to represent the Philippines in the 13-and-under division of the IFC, happening July 9–11. For the team and its tight-knit community, this marks a historic first international outing.
“This is big for us. It’s for the books,” said Valerie Ramos Lasmarias, the club’s public relations officer and a parent of one of the players.
“Nothing’s given, everything is earned,” said Coach Paul Cabio, reflecting on the team’s opportunity to represent not just Mindanao but the entire country.
Higala FC began as an extension of a school-based team in the late 2000s.
“Narecognize siya as Higala around 2010. Mga players in 2008–2009 ay from one school before, yung St. Mary’s School. Pag-graduate nila, ginawang Higala para maka continue sila,” said head coach Jeremy Jablo.
What began with just a handful of players has grown into a grassroots movement.
“Before, one or two age groups lang ang nakaka join sa tournaments. Ngayon marami na. Noong July 2024 nag-Bohol mi, nagdaog ang under-12,” added Lasmarias.
In the 2025 Philippine Cup, Higala’s under-17 team bagged the championship, while the under-14 group placed fourth.
What makes the club even more special, parents say, isn’t just the skills of its players — but the inclusive culture built by what Lasmarias jokingly calls the Parents Support Group (PSG).
“Our players are from all walks of life and different schools,” she said. The club’s guiding philosophy is “no child left behind.”
That community effort is evident in families like that of Kenneth Trillanes, both a parent and an athlete.
“Proud kaayo ko, not just para sa anak ko, but for Higala. Dili tanan mabigyan ng opportunity to join at that age,” he said.
As for preparation, club president Khalil Nelsonjan Lastimosa said the team undergoes strength and conditioning training as well as tactical drills focused on ball mastery and control.
Head coach Jablo emphasized returning to fundamentals.
“We go back sa endurance and stamina. Then to basic skills sa passing and receiving. May friendly games din for practice,” he said.
Training is held daily, with added sessions from visiting coaches, including Manila-based Oliver Colina.
Despite the intense commitment, the team faces financial hurdles.
“Wala kaming funds. We don’t even have our own field. We share with other teams,” Lasmarias said.
Support comes from parents, local businesses, and community fundraising. Sponsors like Chino’s Deli, Vital Water, and Team Graphika have contributed to the team’s journey.
In the end, Coach Jablo reminded everyone of the deeper purpose.
“Bonus na kung manalo. What’s really important ay exposure sa kids. Experience matters.”
Lasmarias added: “But of course, we still want to win very much kay iba pa rin makauwi ng trophy back home.”
For Higala FC’s under-13 team, this trip to Bali is more than just a tournament. It’s a chance to represent Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao, and the Philippines — with pride, grit, and unity. As they prepare to fly out, they carry more than a football — they carry a dream.
