Key Points
- Filipino supporters express concerns over the lack of local media coverage for the FIFA Women's World Cup.
- Local media outlets in the Philippines have been unable to secure the crucial broadcasting rights for the highly anticipated tournament.
- In the group stage of the 2023 World Cup, the Philippines has been drawn to face Norway, Switzerland, and co-host New Zealand.
In a momentous event for Philippine football, the Philippine Women's National Football team is set to make its debut in the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup. The news has ignited a wave of excitement among football fans across the nation. Many supporters have taken their enthusiasm to the next level by booking flights to New Zealand and Australia, eager to witness the national team's historic journey firsthand.
32nd SEA Games vs Malaysia (May 2023) Watch Party Credit: ABANTE FILIPINAS
According to Rhiannon Martin, the Head of FIFA Women's World Cup, this year's competition is expected to be a challenging one. With over 1.1 million tickets already sold, it is poised to become the largest attended women's sporting event in history.
"The impact that this will have on women's football in Australia and New Zealand will be immense. Increase participation, a love for the game, and just general momentum behind the game." Martin shares.
As anticipation builds for the highly anticipated tournament, many Filipino supporters are disappointed by the lack of local media attention, raising fears of missing out on witnessing this historic event. Local media in the Philippines has been unable to secure broadcasting rights, leaving supporters feeling frustrated and worried.
Chile International Friendly (Nov 2022) Credit: ABANTE FILIPINAS
Bernabe highlighted the importance of local TV coverage in allowing Filipino fans to witness their national team competing against top teams from around the world.
The upcoming World Cup has garnered immense global attention, but local media in the Philippines failing to secure broadcasting rights is leaving supporters like Jacq Bernabe frustrated and worried. Credit: JACQ BERNABE
Their group urges local media outlets to prioritise coverage of the Philippine team's matches, ensuring widespread access and enabling the nation to rally behind their representatives.
Bolivs Bolivar, another co-administrator of Abante Filipinas based in the US, stressed the impact that broadcasting the matches could have on inspiring young boys and girls in the Philippines to take up football.
"By providing role models and showcasing the games, young enthusiasts can be encouraged to pursue the sport and develop their skills," he shares.
Credit: BOLIVS BOLIVAR
As the FIFA Women's World Cup draws nearer, more Filipino supporters are calling on local media outlets to take immediate action and secure the broadcasting rights for the national team's matches. The lack of local TV coverage threatens to undermine the excitement and enthusiasm surrounding the Philippines' debut in this global football extravaganza.
Chile International Friendly (Nov 2022) Credit: ABANTE FILIPINAS
"Through various platforms, including social media, we will continue to promote the sport and show unwavering support for our representatives throughout the Women's World Cup."
Filipino football enthusiasts hope that local media outlets will heed their call and secure broadcasting rights, allowing the nation to fully embrace and celebrate this historic moment.
