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| The Aboitiz Pitch at LIMA Estate will be hosting the Batangas Regional Festival of the 24th Aboitiz Football Cup which aims to develop future Filipino athletes through grassroots development programs while instilling an exciting showcase of athleticism and community engagement. (Image Source: Manila Standard/Aboitiz InfraCapital) |
The Aboitiz Football Cup makes its return to Batangas for its ongoing 24th edition, which kicked off last September 2024 in Cebu, and it will take place at the Aboitiz Pitch in Biz Hub at LIMA Estate in the boundaries of Lipa City and the municipality of Malvar, bringing together youth teams from the province, surrounding provinces, and Metro Manila for an exciting showcase of athleticism and community engagement. Known as the Philippines’ longest-running grassroots sports program, the tournament is dedicated to developing future Filipino athletes by instilling values of resilience, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Running over four weekends from November 23 to December 14, the Batangas Regional Festival of the grassroots football tournament features teams across age categories from U-8 to U-18. Top-performing teams in these divisions will have the opportunity to play in an exhibition match in Cebu where the Aboitiz Football Cup originated. This year, the tournament has expanded its regional reach with legs held in Tarlac, Cebu, and Davao, making a broader impact on youth development in sports across the country. As Batangas’ first large-scale business hub, the 70-hectare LIMA Estate integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, creating a vibrant community where business and lifestyle thrive. The Aboitiz Pitch serves as a central gathering space for players, fans, and families, encouraging a sense of community and shared excitement. Alongside The Outlets and LIMA Exchange which offer various shopping and dining options, Biz Hub’s dynamic environment promotes a balanced, community-oriented lifestyle that attracts both locals and visitors. This comprehensive design aligns with Aboitiz InfraCapital’s commitment to developing sustainable and community-centered economic estates across the Philippines.
In partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), the Aboitiz Group introduced the “Wasteless Campaign” as part of its sustainability efforts at this year’s tournament. The initiative encourages young athletes to embrace a zero-waste lifestyle, emphasizing environmental stewardship in sports. Biz Hub’s thoughtfully designed green spaces and sustainable practices complement this objective, reinforcing the tournament’s commitment to positive environmental impact. Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates Vice President for Luzon Operations Clifford Academia emphasized the broader mission behind the tournament at the Batangas leg's media launch event last November 7, 2024, stating, “The 24th Aboitiz Football Cup is more than a tournament; it’s a manifestation of the Aboitiz Group’s Great Transformation as we champion the sport of football in the Philippines. By cultivating a strong community of young athletes, we inspire the next generation to carry this legacy forward. We aim to establish the Aboitiz Football Cup as the premier grassroots football league, contributing to the nation’s progress and enriching Filipino communities.”
Academia added and pointed out that the Aboitiz Pitch has seen an increase in usage of the field not just by teams in the CALABARZON region, but even Metro Manila-based schools and clubs, since its opening and inception, saying, “It is really a field of dreams especially if it helps in a football player’s growth as they go to high school, college, and possibly even the national teams. It shows Aboitiz Group's commitment to grassroots football development including community development." Lipa Football Club founder April Reyes also shared enthusiasm as well as that of other football clubs in the province and the region on the eagerly-anticipated Batangas leg of the Aboitiz Football Cup, saying, "The kids and the parents are all aware of the significance of the Aboitiz Cup. Home field kasi and hometown tournament. Since we began participating in the Aboitiz Cup and received media coverage for our efforts, our members, participation in tournaments, and results have been positive.”
For more updates and details on the 24th Aboitiz Football Cup's Batangas Regional Festival and other upcoming regional legs nationwide, visit and follow the official Facebook page of Aboitiz Football Cup at www.facebook.com/AboitizFootballCupOfficial.
