8April 2024, Icheon - The Philippine Embassy proudly supported the Philippine Women's National Football Team "Filipinas" as they faced the Korean National Women's Football Team "Taeguk Ladies" over two international friendly matches on 5 and 8 April 2024 at the Icheon City Stadium in Icheon, Gyeonggi-do.

Hosted by the Korean Football Association (KFA), the international friendlies symbolize strong people-to-people ties between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea, especially in sports. Sports cooperation through friendly matches in various fields will also feature in the celebration of Philippines and the Republic of Korea's 75 years of diplomatic relations this 2024.

The team was joined by Philippine Women's National Football Team Manager Jefferson Cheng and football coach Mark Torcaso. Although the Filipinas lost to the Republic of Korea, with scores of 3-0 and 2-1 during the friendlies, the Philippine Women's National Football Team gave the Taeguk Ladies two very tough games. Philippines defender Angela Beard scored the Philippines' first and only goal during the friendlies at the 8 April 2024 game. The friendlies are necessary steps to bridge the gap with some of Asia's top football teams. South Korea currently sits at No. 20 on the FIFA ranking, 19 spots above the Philippines, at No. 39.

Third Secretary and Vice Consul Reisha Olavario watched the first game alongside Korea Football Association President Chung Mong-gyu, Icheon City Mayor Kim Kyung-hee, Philippine Women's National Football Team Manager Jefferson Cheng, Philippine Women's National Football Team administrative and support member Kevin Dee, and other officials of the KFA. Third Secretary and Vice Consul Olavario congratulated the Filipinas on the pitch and conveyed the Embassy's support and appreciation for their exceptional talent, performance, and sportsmanship during the KFA-hosted friendlies.

After the games, Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega met with the members, coaches, and administrative-management support of the Philippine Women's National Football Team in Seoul for coffee and treats, in appreciation for the Filipinas' participation in the PH-ROK international football friendlies.

The Philippine Embassy in Seoul wishes the Philippine Women's National Football Team success as they prepare for the Asian Cup. The Philippine Embassy will continue to support Filipino athletes and talents honing their skills in the Republic of Korea. END