The 24th Aboitiz Football Cup has landed in Lipa City, Batangas, at the newly developed Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, showcasing young Filipino talent and fostering community spirit through football.
A Showcase of Young Talent and Community Spirit
The Aboitiz Football Cup, the Philippines’ longest-running grassroots sports initiative, brings together aspiring athletes from Batangas, nearby provinces, and Metro Manila. This year’s tournament, running from November 23 to December 14, features teams across various age groups from U-8 to U-18. The top U-16 and U-18 teams will earn the chance to compete in an exhibition match in Cebu, the birthplace of the Aboitiz Football Cup.
Clifford Academia, Vice President for Luzon Operations at Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, emphasized the tournament’s significance: “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.”
The tournament spans four weekends, with regional legs previously held in Tarlac, Cebu, and Davao. This expansion highlights the Cup’s growing reach and impact, uniting young athletes from diverse regions in a celebration of sportsmanship and dedication.
Biz Hub at LIMA Estate: The Perfect Venue
Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, Batangas’ first master-planned business district, serves as the ideal setting for this year’s tournament. Spanning 70 hectares, Biz Hub fosters a vibrant community where business and lifestyle seamlessly converge.
The Aboitiz Pitch, centrally located within Biz Hub, provides a premier venue for the tournament. “Biz Hub at LIMA Estate serves as the ideal setting for the Batangas Regional Festival of the Aboitiz Football Cup, embodying the integration of spaces to live, work, and play,” Academia noted. The pitch is nestled alongside The Outlets and LIMA Exchange, offering a wide range of shopping and dining experiences, while nearby residential neighborhoods ensure a balanced, community-centered lifestyle.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, Lipa City, Batangas |
| Area | 70 hectares |
| Facilities | Aboitiz Pitch, The Outlets, LIMA Exchange |
| Community Integration | Residential neighborhoods, shopping, dining |
This integration of business, leisure, and residential spaces creates a dynamic environment that supports both participants and spectators, enhancing the overall experience of the tournament.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage
Aligned with its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives, the Aboitiz Group has made sustainability a cornerstone of the Aboitiz Football Cup. In partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI), the tournament launched the “Wasteless Campaign,” promoting environmental responsibility alongside athletic excellence.
The Wasteless Campaign encourages young athletes to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, both on and off the field. “We aim to harmonize sports with environmental stewardship, fostering a commitment to sustainability among the next generation,” Academia explained. This initiative is supported by Biz Hub’s green spaces and sustainable development practices, providing a venue that embodies the principles of positive community change.
Wasteless Campaign Initiatives
- Zero-Waste Goals: Encouraging minimal waste production during events.
- Recycling Stations: Strategically placed throughout Biz Hub for easy access.
- Educational Workshops: Teaching athletes and spectators about sustainability practices.
These efforts ensure that the tournament not only celebrates sports but also instills a sense of environmental responsibility in its participants and the broader community.
Building a Sustainable Future Through Sports
The Aboitiz Football Cup is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for building resilience, discipline, and sportsmanship among young athletes. By integrating these values with sustainable practices, the Cup contributes to the development of well-rounded individuals who are prepared to lead with integrity and care for the environment.
Academia highlighted the broader impact of the tournament: “Through impactful initiatives like the Aboitiz Football Cup and the continuous development of LIMA Estate, Aboitiz InfraCapital reaffirms its commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future for Batangas and the entire Philippines.”
The tournament also serves as a catalyst for community engagement, bringing together families, local businesses, and sports enthusiasts to support and celebrate the achievements of young athletes. This collective effort strengthens community bonds and promotes a culture of mutual support and shared success.
Expanding Reach and Influence
With its regional legs expanding to various provinces, the Aboitiz Football Cup is setting a benchmark for grassroots sports initiatives in the Philippines. The inclusion of teams from Metro Manila and nearby provinces like Tarlac, Cebu, and Davao illustrates the Cup’s growing influence and its role in uniting young athletes across the nation.
Academia emphasized the strategic importance of hosting the tournament at Biz Hub: “By hosting the Cup in a master-planned business district, we not only provide top-notch facilities but also integrate sports into the daily lives of the community, making it accessible and engaging for everyone.”
The strategic placement within a thriving business hub ensures that the tournament benefits from excellent infrastructure and a supportive environment, facilitating smooth operations and an enjoyable experience for all involved.
