Marcos Hopes Alex Eala, Filipinas Inspire More Filipinos to Take Up Sports
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted tennis star Alex Eala and the Philippine Women’s National Football Team during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, expressing hope that their influence will inspire more Filipinos to participate in sports.
Alex Eala’s impact
Marcos pointed to the overwhelming support Eala has received from Filipinos, saying he hopes it will encourage more people to take up not only tennis but other sports as well.
“Sa nag-uumapaw nating suporta kay Alex Eala, sana ay marami ang maengganyo at matutong maglaro, hindi lang ng tennis, kundi ng ibang isports pa,” Marcos said.
Eala has enjoyed a breakout 2026 campaign, climbing to a career-high world ranking while reaching several milestones, including becoming the first Filipina to be seeded in a Grand Slam singles draw and advancing to the fourth round of Wimbledon.
Filipinas’ influence on football
The President also cited the Philippine Women’s National Football Team, expressing hope that the Filipinas will continue to inspire more Filipinos to embrace football.
“Sa halimbawa ng Pilipinas Women’s Football Team, sana rin ay mas sumikat pa ang football sa ating bansa at maraming maglaro. Balang araw, baka makasali na ang Pilipinas sa World Cup,” he said.
The Filipinas reached the quarterfinals of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup and secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil after defeating Uzbekistan, marking the country’s second consecutive appearance in the global tournament.
Support for sports
Marcos also underscored the value of sports beyond competition and entertainment, saying it plays an important role in promoting the health of Filipinos.
“Mahalaga rin ang ating isports. Itinaas natin nang triple ang ating suporta rito. Hindi lamang dahil sa aliw na hatid nito, kundi para sa kalusugan,” he said.
While Marcos said his administration has tripled its support for sports, he did not elaborate on the specific programs or funding behind the increase during his address.
