ILOILO CITY — A groundbreaking partnership between the city government and Kaya F.C.–Iloilo is poised to give young Ilonggo footballers a clear path to excellence. The proposed Kaya FC Academy Iloilo will offer structured training for children aged 6 to 17, nurturing both athletic talent and essential life skills.
A Dream for Young Footballers
Mayor Raisa Treñas recently met with Paul Antoine Tolentino, President of Kaya F.C.–Iloilo, to discuss the academy’s blueprint. The program aims to initially serve around 100 to 150 young athletes, filling a crucial gap in grassroots football development. For the first time, children from diverse backgrounds will have access to a professional training curriculum right in the heart of the city.
The academy will not only focus on technical drills but also prepare its players to represent Iloilo in football festivals, leagues, and regional competitions. The goal is to create a steady pipeline of homegrown talent capable of competing on the national stage. Every session will be designed to ignite passion and instill a sense of pride in wearing the city’s colors.
Professional Expertise Meets Community Passion
Kaya F.C.–Iloilo brings a championship pedigree to the partnership, having claimed multiple national titles in the Philippines Football League and represented the country in the AFC Champions League Two. Under Tolentino’s leadership, the academy will adopt the same high standards that define the professional club. This ensures that young players receive elite‑level coaching from the very start.
The collaboration extends to the Iloilo City Sports Academy, creating a seamless pathway from community‑based sports clinics to a professional development system. Children who begin in free city programs can now aspire to join Kaya’s youth ranks without leaving their hometown. The fusion of grassroots passion and professional expertise promises to elevate the entire local football ecosystem.
World‑Class Facilities at La Paz Plaza
The academy’s home will be the newly upgraded La Paz Plaza football field, which recently became the first plaza‑based pitch in Western Visayas to meet international lighting standards. A PHP 17.3‑million lighting system now allows for safe, extended evening training sessions, maximizing playtime for busy students. The field is part of a larger PHP 75‑million rehabilitation that includes a new drainage system and flood‑prevention features.
These improvements transform a historic public space into a modern training ground worthy of a professional academy. The flood‑free, well‑lit pitch ensures that weather rarely disrupts practice, a critical factor in a tropical climate. For the young athletes, training under the same lights that illuminate professional stadiums will feel like a dream come true.
Building Character Beyond the Game
Mayor Treñas emphasized that the academy’s mission goes beyond producing skilled footballers. The program is designed to mold disciplined, confident, and responsible individuals who will inspire their families and communities. Sports, she noted, is a powerful vehicle for teaching values that last a lifetime.
The structured environment will challenge players to balance academics and athletics, fostering time management and resilience. Coaches will serve as mentors, guiding children through both victories and setbacks. The lessons learned on the pitch—teamwork, perseverance, and respect—will shape them into well‑rounded citizens long after their playing days are over.
A Shared Vision for Iloilo’s Youth
The city government has already referred the proposal to the Sports Office to explore deeper integration with existing development programs. The collaboration between public and private sectors reflects a shared belief that investing in youth is investing in the future. The academy is expected to become a cornerstone of Iloilo City’s sports development agenda.
For the young Ilonggos who will soon lace up their boots at La Paz Plaza, the academy represents more than just a chance to play football. It is an opportunity to dream bigger, work harder, and one day bring glory to the City of Love.
