Ateneo de Manila University midfielder Dov Cariño is on a mission: to help the Philippine Men’s Under-23 National Team finally secure a gold medal at this month’s 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
Already seasoned from competing in major regional tournaments like the 32nd SEA Games and the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, Cariño feels determined to turn the country’s long-standing near-misses into triumph.
Cariño, who has netted five goals for the Blue Eagles in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Football Tournament, praised the squad’s atmosphere and training quality, highlighting the players’ readiness for the challenge ahead.
“Preparations for the SEA Games have been great. Training has been top quality, and the squad’s morale is very positive,” said the 21-year-old standout.
“The goal of the U-23 team this SEA Games is definitely to go home with gold. We believe that we have the capacity to do so, and anything less would be disappointing.”
It’s been a whirlwind few months for Cariño, who has been a consistent presence in international U-23 competitions such as the ASEAN U-23 Mandiri Cup 2025 and the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers, all while fulfilling his commitments with Ateneo.
As the Blue Eagles’ captain, he has steered the team to fourth in the standings, keeping them on track for a Final Four appearance when Season 88 resumes next month. Off the pitch, Cariño also balances his academic responsibilities while attending the national team’s training camp.
“Playing in UAAP this year has helped me get physically and mentally ready for these international tournaments,” said Cariño.
“The intensity of the games has helped me get in shape to represent the country and given me a chance to work on parts of my game that needed improvement.”
Fortunately, Cariño’s packed schedule has been manageable.
“Luckily, none of the three commitments clash. We played our last UAAP game just before camp started,” he shared.
“Academically, I’ve still been able to study for and take my finals to the best of my abilities. I’m making sure everything is on track in school while focusing on preparing for the SEA Games.”
The U-23 men’s division has yet to see the Philippines reach the podium despite numerous attempts.
Cariño is confident this batch of players can break the streak. Personally, he’s ready to give everything to make it happen.
“I will give the team my all when I get the chance to play,” he said.
“I want to leave the field knowing I’ve done everything I could. Every game, I’ll play with the mindset that I’ve given my absolute best.”
