The Rise and Struggle of Philippine Football: A Story of Imported Talent

Few people know that in the 1920s, Philippine football stood as a powerhouse in Asia. Led by the legendary Paulino Alcantara, the team dominated on the field, even triumphing over Japan with a remarkable score of 15-2. However, the arrival of basketball, courtesy of Uncle Sam (USA), shifted the nation’s sporting focus. Filipinos quickly embraced basketball, especially after clinching a bronze medal in the FIBA World Cup during the 1950s, causing football to take a backseat.

Today, despite a population of over 100 million, the national football team heavily relies on players born abroad. Many of the national team players were born outside the Philippines, predominantly to Filipino parents living abroad. While these players have undoubtedly bolstered the team’s performances, their presence has ignited debate, with some labelling them as “half-blood” players. It is important to underline that this critique isn’t a racist attack, but rather highlights concerns about their connection to the Philippines since they were not born here. Filipinos are well known to be some of the most inclusive and welcoming people in the world, often celebrating diversity. The term ‘half-blood’ stems more from worries about the players’ ties to the Philippines rather than any racist sentiment.

The crucial question emerges: Is it prudent to recruit foreign-born players, or does this strategy undermine the development of local talent? The journey of Philippine football mirrors the nation’s ongoing struggle to strike a balance between honouring tradition and competing on the global stage. One undeniable truth remains: Filipinos retain a profound love for their country first and foremost but also for football, and it’s high time to reignite that passion.

At Manila Montet, we’ve taken a decisive stand to prioritize local talent to aid in the development of football in the country. The Philippines deserves it, and our homegrown players deserve the opportunity to showcase their abilities on the field.