By Mikee Natinga Norico

American Corner (AC) Iloilo launched the AC Iloilo Football Friendship Tournament 2026, themed “FREEDOM250,” on July 13, 2026, at the 3rd floor of the Henry Luce III Library, bringing together student-athletes, football clubs, sports advocates, and regional partners to promote teamwork, friendship, cultural exchange, and international cooperation through sports.

The five-day tournament, which runs until July 17, features friendly football matches, sports discussions, and activities aimed at strengthening community connections while highlighting the role of sports in fostering collaboration and leadership development.

The opening ceremony gathered members of the Central Philippine University (CPU) community, international sports advocates, representatives from American Corner Batac, and local football clubs. CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy delivered the welcome message, emphasizing the importance of initiatives that foster partnerships and community engagement through sports.

The event also featured a partnership address from Dr. Ma. Cynthia T. Peleña, Director of CPU Libraries and American Corner Iloilo, and Ms. Maria Cristeta R. Llacuna, Director of the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Library System and American Corner Batac. They highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in advancing sports development and strengthening institutional partnerships.

A key highlight of the opening program was the “Meet the Experts” panel discussion, which provided a platform for conversations on grassroots football development, futsal, athletic management, and sports science. The discussion featured sports professionals, including Mr. Michael Kevin Goco, FIFA Master Alumni; Engr. Marc Hermel G. Agriam, CPU Sports Director; Dr. James Paul T. Madigal, MMSU Futsal Coach; and Dr. Robert A. Salvador, MMSU Football Coach.

The panel discussion engaged student-athletes, local football organizations such as Iloilo United FC, Cabatuan, and AlleyKicks 5000, as well as representatives from American Corner Batac, encouraging knowledge exchange and discussions on the future development of football and futsal in the region.

Following the opening activities, friendly football matches were held at the CPU Football Field from July 13 to 17, featuring teams from CPU, Iloilo United FC (IUFC), Cabatuan, AlleyKicks 5000, and IU23.

The AC Iloilo Football Friendship Tournament 2026 will culminate with an awarding ceremony this afternoon, July 17, at 4:00 p.m. at the CPU Football Field. Participating teams will be recognized for their sportsmanship, teamwork, and contributions to the success of the tournament.

Through FREEDOM250, American Corner Iloilo continues to promote sports as a platform for building meaningful connections, strengthening community ties, and advancing collaboration among local and international partners. The initiative reflects the shared commitment of partner institutions to use sports as a tool for engagement, cultural understanding, and community development.