In the quiet coastal town of Milagros, Masbate, where fishing boats dot the horizon and life flows at an unhurried pace, a revolution has taken root—one built not on politics or industry, but on the beautiful game of football.
Since its founding in 2022, Milagros United Football Club has become more than just a team. It is a movement. It is hope stitched into jerseys, dreams carried on muddy cleats, and pride echoed in the voices of children who dare to believe that their story can stretch far beyond the borders of their barangay.
A Legacy Born of Passion and Sacrifice
The club was founded by Mark Anthony Tuyan and Coach Carlo Esquillo, men bound by vision and service. For Mark, once an SK Chairman, football became a lifeline for the youth scarred by the pandemic years. For Carlo, a former PUP varsity player, the pitch was a second classroom—a place where children could learn discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
Their work is inseparable from the memory of the late Vice Mayor Jose “Junjun” Magbalon, a steadfast supporter of Milagros football. Junjun was more than a leader; he was a believer. Though he has passed, his legacy breathes in every training session and every cheer from the sidelines.
“We owe a lot to him,” the founders humbly share. “We couldn’t have made it here without his support.”
Carrying the Town’s Name with Pride
The name Milagros United is no accident. It is both a declaration and a promise.
“Bilang proud na taga-Milagros, gusto namin dalhin ang aming lungsod saan man kami lumaban,” Mark’s say. To wear the crest is to carry an entire community’s hope, whether the scoreboard shows triumph or defeat.
Each match is not just about goals—it is about proving that even from the fishing villages of Masbate, champions can rise.
Building from the Ground Up
Like many great journeys, Milagros United began humbly—with free training sessions, borrowed fields, and a handful of players. Today, it has grown into a full academy with structured programs, five training days a week, and age groups from 7 to 13 years old.
Their mantra is simple yet relentless:
“Wag kang tumigil pag pagod ka, tumigil ka pag tapos na.”
(Don’t stop when you’re tired; stop when you’re done.)
It is this mindset that has forged not just athletes, but resilient individuals ready to face life’s bigger battles.
Breaking Barriers in a Basketball Town
For decades, basketball reigned supreme in Milagros. But football has quietly rewritten the narrative, producing names like Krenz Viloria, Ryuji Rebaya, Ezar Duero, and Coach Carlo himself, who competed in the NCAA, UAAP, and Palarong Pambansa. Where basketball dreams often faded, football opened doors.
United by determination, Milagros is now known across the province as a cradle of footballing talent.
Champions on the Field, Family Off It
From local meets to national stages, Milagros United has proven its mettle. They are three-time champions of the Keith Absalon Cup (2023–2025), semi-finalists in Cebu’s Thirsty Cup, and winners of multiple futsal and provincial titles.
- Keith Absalon Cup – U12 1st Runner-Up (2022), U12 Champion (2023), U12 Champion (2024), U10 & U12 Champion (2025)
- 17th Thirsty Cup, Cebu – Semi-finalist (2023)
- Provincial Meet – Bronze Medalist (2025)
Masbate Futsal – Multiple age group champions (2024) - Various Municipal & Invitational Cups – Multiple championships and podium finishes
But perhaps their most powerful story came not from a medal, but from a meal. After one victory, the children celebrated at a fried chicken joint—some tasting fast food for the first time. Their joy filled the restaurant, and a stranger, moved by their laughter, gifted them a 1.5L soda to share. For those kids, that night was as unforgettable as any trophy.
Because football, at its core, is not only about winning—it’s about belonging.
Opening Doors for the Next Generation
Milagros United’s vision goes far beyond trophies. Their dream is to help financially challenged children earn scholarships to prestigious schools and universities. Football, for them, is not an end but a bridge—a pathway to education, opportunity, and a brighter future.
The challenges remian: limited equipment, a shortage of trained coaches, and scarce funding. Yet, every obstacle only sharpens their resolve. With the support of the LGU under Mayor Naty Magbalon, local schools, and an ever-growing community, Milagros United continues to rise.
A Message to Young Dreamers
To every child lacing up their boots, the club offers one piece of advice:
“Enjoy nyo lang ang laro. Be confident.”
(Enjoy the game. Be confident.)
Confidence to step onto the pitch. Confidence to dream. Confidence to believe that no matter where you come from—even from the farthest shores of Masbate—you can stand tall on the biggest stages of Philippine football.
OneFutbol’s Reflection
At OneFutbol, we believe stories like Milagros United’s are what give football its soul. From barangay fields to national tournaments, their journey is proof that passion, resilience, and unity can spark miracles—fittingly, from the town of Milagros itself.
If you want to support or be part of this remarkable football family, you can reach Milagros United through their official Facebook page. Together, let’s keep building dreams through the beautiful game.
