Mariano “Nonong” Araneta vowed to support the further development of grassroots and youth programs after he was reelected as Philippine Football Federation president yesterday.
Araneta said this following elections during the 16th PFF Congress at Century Park Hotel in Manila.
“I am thankful for the trust and confidence that the regional football associations gave me and for giving me another term,” said Araneta.
The 65-year-old Araneta explained that his support for football development will not just be for the grassroots level, but also for the youth programs.
He won by a vote of 23-12 over Negros Football Association president Ricky Yanson.
Thirty-two regional football association heads joined the elections, along with three newly accepted clubs to the PFF in Ceres Negros, Kaya Iloilo and Stallion Laguna
M’lang, Cotabato vice mayor Joselito Piñol was also re-elected vice-president, after running opposite Percy Guarin.
Lalaine Sarmiento was reelected as women’s representative to the board.
Jay Adriatico retained his post as board member for Luzon, along with Domingo Baluyot.
Azkals’ manager Dan Palami also kept his post as board member for Visayas, with Rocelle Sombillo and Rodney Orale.
Atty. Lawrence Fortun is a new board member for Visayas, with Engr. Henry Sabale, Dr. Justine Faber and Arnel Garces.
Araneta also extended his hand in reconciliation to Yanson after a challenging campaign.
“Rest assured, we will do better and we will move on as one,” said Araneta. “I enjoin everyone to unite for the good of Philippine football. I am extending my hand to my opponent so we can bring football further.”
Araneta said his four-year plan for the federation will include more infrastructure with the impending completion of the National Training Centre in Carmona, Cavite.
Qatar Airways, upon Araneta’s request, had agreed to a three-year deal as title sponsor of the PFL starting next year.
Yanson graciously acknowledged the victory of Araneta.
“I would like to thank my wife, my daughter, my family, my campaign team and all of my supporters for their unwavering dedication to our cause. Not once did they give up. As one Coach had said after a defeat, ‘Life goes on,’” Yanson said.
“Indeed, life goes on for me. I will continue to help Philippine Football through the “Football Para Sa Lahat” advocacy. I will continue the programs we’ve begun in Negros Occidental and will wholeheartedly partner with PFF in endeavors just like NOFA has done in the past. Nothing will change my love for the beautiful game.”