The Zambales Football Futsal Association (Zambales FFA), officially recognized in 2022, stands as the governing body for football and futsal in Zambales, Region 3. Under the leadership of President Leugium Miguel Mercado, the association is driven by a clear mission: to grow the sport, strengthen grassroots development, and open doors of opportunity for players, coaches, and referees across the province.
How It All Began
The roots of Zambales FFA trace back to Iba Football Club (Iba FC), the very first football club in the province, founded by Pastor Peter Moon. Through years of dedication, the seniors and alumni of Iba FC nurtured the sport, keeping the passion alive when resources were scarce. Their perseverance became the solid foundation on which today’s official football and futsal association proudly stands.
Milestones and Achievements
Since its formation, Zambales FFA has taken bold steps to bring football to greater heights:
- 1st and 2nd Zambales Futsal Tournaments
- Parayawan Mini Football Tournament
- Futsal Friendly Series
Beyond local tournaments, players have represented Zambales in competitions outside the province—especially in Manila—bringing pride and valuable experience back home.
Programs include:
- Youth Leagues
- School-Based Competitions
- Men’s Amateur League
- Futsal Events
Biggest Accomplishments
- Organizing homegrown tournaments that keep the local football scene alive and thriving.
- Competing in outside tournaments—the so-called “dayo series”—where Zambales players test their skills, gain exposure, and raise the province’s flag with pride.
Impact and Community
The association’s efforts are already bearing fruit. In 2023, a local university from Zambales emerged as Regional SCUAA Champion, advancing to the national stage—a moment of triumph that inspired the entire football community.
Zambales FFA also actively works with local government units (LGUs), advocating football and futsal as vital programs for youth development, discipline, and community pride.
Football Culture and Inspiration
Football in Zambales is not just a sport—it is a culture built on passion, unity, and legacy. The spirit of Iba FC alumni and pioneers continues to guide today’s young players, proving that the love for the game transcends generations.
Their rallying cry, “We Are One,” echoes across towns and communities, reminding every child who laces up their boots: keep playing, keep believing, and keep moving forward.
Vision and Goals
Vision:
To expand the reach of football and futsal by establishing more clubs across towns in Zambales, giving every community the chance to embrace the game.
Goals for the Next 1–3 Years:
- Train and develop more coaches
- Build a stronger pool of referees
- Establish football and futsal clubs and teams in more towns
Challenges Ahead
Like many grassroots movements, Zambales FFA faces hurdles:
- Limited budget
- Need for greater support
Yet despite these challenges, the association’s determination remains unshaken. Referees often invest in their own training, and communities volunteer tirelessly—proof that passion is stronger than obstacles.
A Call to Support
Zambales FFA continues to rise, step by step, driven by the belief that football belongs to everyone. With the help of partners, sponsors, and supporters, the association can strengthen its programs, widen its reach, and create life-changing opportunities for young players.
To support Zambales FFA is to invest in the future of football in the province. It is to believe that every child deserves a chance to dream, play, and succeed through the beautiful game.
Facebook: Zambales Football Futsal Association
Together, with unity and passion, they move forward—because in Zambales, football is more than a sport… it is family, it is community, and above all, it is ONE.
