PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

01 MARCH 2026, PERTH and CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio A. Morales joined Filipino-Australian supporters in Perth to cheer on the Philippine Women's National Football Team, the Filipinas, as they compete in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Australia.

The Filipinas battled valiantly against Australia’s Matildas, narrowly losing 1-0, but their skill, discipline, and determination earned widespread admiration.

"Even in a tight match, the Filipinas displayed incredible skill and heart, and are incredibly inspiring," said Ambassador Morales. "Their performance stands as a testament to the talent, strength and courage of Filipino women."

The Filipino community in Perth also organized a spirited fan march from Burswood to Perth Stadium, led by Honorary Consul Melissa Aguasa, drawing dozens of supporters eager to cheer on the team.

Simultaneously, the Philippine Embassy in Canberra hosted a solidarity watch party led by newly arrived Consul General Sheila Tario. The event brought together members of the Filipino-Australian community as well as representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

Women's Sports Reporter, economist and UN Women Youth Advisor Isha Singhal offered insights into the match and highlighted key players from both teams which enhance the attendees’ appreciation of the match and the skill of both Filipinas and Matildas.

Consul General Tario expressed appreciation for the community's support and connected the team's journey to the strong people-to-people connections between the Philippines and Australia, which celebrates its 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations this 2026.

She also noted the celebration of National Women’s Month in March and emphasized how the Filipinas continue to inspire young Filipino girls to pursue sports and leadership at the highest levels. The Filipinas’ track record speaks for itself: 2022 ASEAN Football Federation Women's Champions, qualified for the first time ever in the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023, and the 2025 Southeast Asian Games gold medallists. Their courage, resilience, and leadership continue to raise the profile of women’s football in the Philippines and beyond.

Fans can catch the Filipinas in action in their upcoming games in Gold Coast:

📌Philippines 🇵🇭 vs Korea 🇰🇷
Thursday, 5 March, 1:00 PM, Gold Coast Stadium

📌Philippines 🇵🇭 vs Iran 🇮🇷
Saturday, 8 March, 7:00 PM, Gold Coast Stadium

#LabanFilipinas🇵🇭
#LabanFilipinasParaSaBayan
#WeGoAgain #WAC2026 #DreamFearless

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