“We play with pride. We play for Balamban!”
In the coastal town of Balamban, Cebu, where the mountains meet the sea and laughter fills every street, a quiet dream began to take shape — one that would change the lives of countless young athletes.
That dream was Balamban Futbol Club — a grassroots family built not from wealth or fame, but from heart, faith, and an unshakable belief that football can open doors to a brighter future.
Founded in 2005 by Ronald Dela Gente, Balamban Football Club was born out of a simple yet powerful goal:
To give the youth of Balamban a home where they could grow, compete, and dream through the beautiful game.
Today, under the steady leadership of President Rod John Marquita, that dream burns stronger than ever.
“The grassroots keep me going,” Marquita shares with pride. “We’re producing quality players, and more importantly — helping our players chase their dreams.”
Rooted in Pride, Built on Community
The name Balamban Futbol Club carries deep meaning. It’s not just a name — it’s an identity.
“We use Balamban FC because that’s who we are,” says Marquita. “This is our town, our pride, and wherever we go, we carry its name on our chest and in our hearts.”
Balamban Futbol Club is more than a club — it’s a symbol of unity. A movement of families, teachers, coaches, and dreamers who believe that greatness can come from humble beginnings.
From a Small Field to a Big Dream
Like many grassroots journeys, Balamban Futbol Club started from scratch — with borrowed equipment, improvised training sessions, and unstoppable determination.
Through persistence and faith, they reached out to local sponsors and private partners, building the foundation they needed to compete.
Every tournament became a lesson. Every defeat, a teacher. Every victory, a shared triumph.
And slowly but surely, Balamban Futbol Club became one of Cebu’s most respected community clubs — built not on resources, but on resilience.
Training for Excellence
Led by Head Coach Khien Lanza (PYCC), Balamban FC trains four times a week — Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday — nurturing not just talent, but discipline, respect, and teamwork.
Their programs include:
- Girls’ & Women’s Football
- Goalkeeper Training
- Futsal
- Conditioning & Drills
“Football is not just about playing better,” Marquita explains. “It’s about growing better — as players, as teammates, and as people.”
Balamban Futbol Club welcomes everyone — no fees, no barriers. Their open field stands as a symbol of hope, free for any kid who dreams of kicking a ball and belonging to something greater.
The Beating Heart of Balamban
The impact of Balamban FC extends far beyond the pitch.
Parents cheer from the sidelines. Schools adjust schedules to support their student-athletes.
The Local Government Unit provides food, transport, and gear.
It’s football woven into everyday life — a living, breathing collaboration between families, educators, and local leaders, all united by a single goal:
To give every child a chance.
Family First, Always
Inside Balamban Futbol Club, everyone is family.
Players celebrate together, train together, and lift each other through challenges.
Their club chant echoes this spirit:
“BALAMBANNNNNNNNNNNN—TEAM!”
It’s more than a battle cry. It’s a heartbeat — a declaration of unity, love, and belonging.
Competing with Heart
Despite limited resources, Balamban FC competes fiercely in both local and national tournaments, including:
- Thirsty Cup Festival 7s
- Erco Samareno Tournament 7s
- Hinuwalan Festival 7s
- 7s AIA Tournament
- Eagles Cup Tournament
And they’ve made their mark:
🏆 Champion – Women’s Open Division
🥈 2nd Place – Men’s Open (Plate Division)
These achievements prove that when passion and teamwork collide, even the smallest clubs can rise against the odds.
Rising Stars, Inspiring Futures
Balamban FC takes pride in its alumni — players like Ernesto Geuvara and Joseph Puentenegra, who went from San Beda Senior High to become varsity athletes for the University of San Carlos.
Their journey reminds every young footballer that discipline and perseverance can turn local dreams into success stories.
Vision for Tomorrow
For President Marquita, trophies are just part of the story. The true measure of success lies in transforming lives through football.
“My dream is to see more of our players earn college scholarships through football,” he shares. “And I want our high school players to bring home championships — CVRAA, Palarong Pambansa, wherever their hearts take them.”
But the road ahead isn’t easy. Balamban Futbol Club still faces challenges — limited funding, lack of equipment, and the ongoing need for community support.
Their wishlist is simple:
⚽ Football shoes
⚽ Balls and cones
⚽ Goal nets and training gear
Each donation, each show of support, helps keep their mission alive.
A Story That Warms the Heart
One of the club’s most unforgettable moments happened right in their hometown — a tournament organized entirely by their own players and volunteers.
From setting up tents to cleaning the field after the final whistle, everyone worked together.
When the games ended, the club gathered for a simple meal — laughter echoing, hearts full, dreams alive.
That day captured the essence of Balamban FC: family, unity, and love for the game.
Message to Every Young Dreamer
“To all aspiring footballers — keep going,” Marquita says. “Don’t stop learning. Don’t stop playing. Every small step brings you closer to your dream.”
OneFutbol Salute
OneFutbol proudly salutes Balamban Futbol Club — for proving that football’s greatest victories are not just scored on the pitch, but written in the lives it changes.
In Balamban, football isn’t just a sport.
It’s hope.
It’s family.
It’s home.
To support or join Balamban Futbol Club, visit their official Facebook page: Balamban Futbol Club
Be part of their growing football family and help keep the passion alive in Balamban. ⚽
