FOLLOWING FC Meralco Manila’s withdrawal from the Philippines Football League (PFL) earlier this month, Ilocos United FC on Wednesday also decided to skip this year’s season.
A letter from Ilocos United FC CEO Tony Lazaro said that it was unfortunate that after months of negotiation, efforts to attract a new sponsor for the team came unsuccessful.
“Consequently, it has become financially prohibitive to continue participation in the PFL. Primarily, the lack of broadcasting exposure in 2017 created an apprehension in the corporate community, cascading into a series of afflictions that has ultimately led to our withdrawal from the competition,” he added.
He added that the club, the players, coaches, staff, and management wished to extend deepest gratitude to their supporters around the country for the fervent and unwavering support throughout the club’s 2017 campaign.
“We are cautiously optimistic of a potential return to the PFL for the 2019 season, whereby secured broadcasting exposure will hopefully lead to higher confidence from potential sponsorship partners,” he added.
In the meantime, the Ilocos United will continue to help in the foundation of football development in Ilocos, including the grassroots initiatives at local schools, women’s futsal, Special Olympics, and, the IUFC Academy.
“We wish PFL’s continued growth and urge that the nation to join us to continuously support the development of the beautiful game in the Philippines,” Lazaro said.
The exit of Meralco and Ilocos United leaves the league with six teams when it kicks off late next month.
