MANILA, Philippines - With the rise of Philippine football, it is apparent that basketball is no longer the only sport that can amass the support of thousands of Filipinos. Led by the Philippine Azkals, football has rapidly garnered fans from all over the country and even Filipinos abroad.
To celebrate the team’s lucrative year, the Kaholeros (self-named Azkals fans) organized a Christmas party to give thanks to the team’s continuous endeavor in representing the country in the world of football. Held last December 20 at the SMDC Grand Show Room, the Azkals Christmas Party gave the Kaholeros a chance to mingle with their favorite players in a night of good food and music.
CAC, exclusive distributor of KIA vehicles in the Philippines, also made a strong presence at the Azkals Christmas Party. CAC President, Ginia Domingo, CAC VP for Marketing, Dodie Gañac and CAC Marketing Services Manager, Boying Soriano turned over four brand new KIA Picantos to Azkals’ Ian Araneta, Eduard Sacapaño, Roel Gener and Anton Del Rosario. It was also announced this was just the first batch of KIA vehicles. All the Azkals veterans will be receiving their own KIA vehicles in the near future.
“I would like to thank KIA for continuously supporting the Azkals. The rest of the players will be getting their KIA cars soon and for that, we have CAC to thank for,” said Azkals manager Dan Palami, showing the team’s gratitude for CAC’s support.
After the ceremonial turnover, the Kaholeros presented awards to several Azkals who showed exemplary skills in their matches. Chieffy Caligdong bagged two awards as Mr. Congeniality and Player of the Year. Aly Borromeo won the Fair Play award and Stephan Schrock received the Goal of the Year award. The awards ceremony was capped by a special AVP showing the highlights of the Azkals’ journey to sports stardom.