The "Adopted" Fan: Meet the Fijian-Indian and Filipino Duo Following the Filipinas Across Australia

As the Filipinas prepare to face Uzbekistan at Gold Coast Stadium today, March 19, the stands are filling with a diverse community of supporters proving that "Puso" knows no boundaries.

Brisbane-based Filipinas supporters, Andrew and Melvin. Credit: SBS Filipino / Annalyn Violata

Key Points

• The "Adopted" Supporter: Melvin Chand, a Fijian-Indian Australian, has become a staple at Filipino community gatherings. Drawn in by the warmth of the culture, he now travels interstate to cheer for the Filipinas, noting that he feels like an "adopted Filipino" due to the inclusive nature of the fans.
• A Rare Opportunity: Andrew Agpalza, a Filipino-Australian based in Brisbane, isn't letting work get in the way of history. He took formal leave to follow the team from the Gold Coast to Sydney noting that "It’s not every day that Australia hosts and the Philippine team qualifies."
• Fans and supporters rally behind the Filipinas for their critical qualifier against Uzbekistan at Gold Coast Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for March 19 at 2 p.m. AEDT (1 p.m. AEST).

LISTEN TO

The "Adopted" Fan: Meet the Fijian-Indian and Filipino Duo Following the Filipinas Across Australia

SBS Filipino

05:13Filipino

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.