Fresh off their breakthrough win in Laoag, the Apayao Football Club (AFC) is not slowing down.
The team clinched another championship title at the 2nd Agrimat Magsingal 7-Aside Tournament held March 22–23, 2025, in Ilocos Sur, making it two wins in just over a month.
The core of the squad is mostly homegrown talent from Pudtol. They outplayed 19 other teams in Magsingal after having topped a 16-team bracket during the MMK 7-Aside Football Tournament in Laoag City last February. AFC’s grit, chemistry, and discipline continue to turn heads on the regional pitch.
Leading the charge was Team Captain Maurel James Legazpi, who bagged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for steering the team through tight matches.
As champions, AFC took home medals, a trophy, and a 50% discount on the registration fee for the Philippines Cup 2025 happening this May at Clark Freeport Zone. Organized by MaxCom Sports Management Services, the national tournament will see AFC go up against elite clubs from across the country.
The team expressed its gratitude to Team Manager Rudy T. Castillo, Assistant Coach Lichfield Wamil, and their support network—families, sponsors, and local backers. They also recognized Team Futbol Iloko, led by Sebastian De Jesus of Laoag, for continued partnership and camaraderie.
AFC’s rise would not be possible without the support of the Provincial Government of Apayao through Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr., who provided transportation, and Board Member Kyle Mariah Chelsea S. Bulut-Cunan, whose steady backing boosts the team’s grassroots efforts.
Organized in partnership with the Municipality of Magsingal and Agrimat Magsingal, the tournament offered a platform to compete and to affirm AFC’s growing reputation as a serious football force from the north. By Loremia Pareja
