By: Icko de Guzman
The 2025–2026 Philippines Football League season kicked off in emphatic fashion, as defending champions Kaya-Iloilo and last season’s runners-up Manila Digger both made resounding statements in their opening matches.
Kaya-Iloilo crushed Philippine Army, 12–0, while Manila Digger overwhelmed Valenzuela PB-Mendiola, 9–2, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium
Kaya-Iloilo’s scoring barrage featured a hat-trick from hometown hero and captain Jhan Melliza, a brace from debutant Mike Ott, and goals from Jovin Bedic, Kenshiro Daniels, Shuto Komaki, Martini Rey, Mar Diano, and Audie Menzi.
Melliza completed his hat-trick deep into stoppage time, capping a relentless performance that saw Kaya take a commanding lead by halftime.
Manila Digger FC was equally dominant, led by Saikouba Ceesay’s three-goal outing.
Modou Joof scored twice, including a penalty, while Kenji Nishioka, Ousman Gai, and Dilane Wamba Tafem also found the net.
Valenzuela PB-Mendiola managed consolation goals through Victor Fayol and veteran Ruben Doctora Jr., but it wasn’t enough to slow Digger’s high-powered attack.
Both Kaya-Iloilo and Manila Digger will return to action following the international window, with Kaya facing Aguilas-UMak FC on September 13, while Manila Digger meets Stallion Laguna on September 14.
