By: Icko de Guzman
With less than two months remaining before the Filipinas begin their AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 campaign, Philippine Football Federation President John Gutierrez is confident that the Filipinas will have ample time to prepare for the tournament, which also serves as a qualifying pathway to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.
Fresh off their gold medal triumph at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games last December, the Filipinas will hold a three-week training camp in Manila, with most players expected to arrive by Sunday.
“We will have a three-week camp in Manila, that’s our preparation for the Women’s Asian Cup,” said Gutierrez.
“Dapat magsimula na ang training. Dadating na ang girls starting January 30, and by February 1, kumpleto na sila.”
As part of their build-up, the national side will play a friendly match against Bangladesh in Manila next month. Then they will head to Perth for two more tune-up matches against A-League Women clubs ahead of their opening match against hosts Australia on March 1 at Optus Stadium.
“We’ve invited Bangladesh to have a friendly here, then tutulak na tayo papuntang Perth, and we’ll play two friendlies against professional Australian clubs,” Gutierrez added.
When asked about the status of Sarina Bolden, Gutierrez expressed hope that the forward — who converted the winning penalty that sent the Philippines to its first-ever Women’s World Cup — would be fit in time for the tournament.
“I’m not certain if she’s match-ready,” Gutierrez said.
“But I’m hoping that she will be part of the Asian Cup squad.”
