Philippine Sports Commission Chair Richard Bachmann (center) holds the replica of the Federation Internationale de Football Association Quality Pro certificate, which the PSA received for the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex’s football field. The football field was tested for certification on April 11, 2025 and got the certification on May 2. (PNA photo by Jean Malanum)
The football pitch at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) has officially received the prestigious FIFA Quality Pro certification, the highest designation awarded by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) under its Quality Programme.
The announcement was made during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum at RMSC on Tuesday by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and E-Sports International, the country’s top expert in developing FIFA-certified fields.
FIFA’s Quality Pro certification is reserved for artificial turf systems that meet the most stringent standards in performance, safety, accuracy, and durability—suitable for top-tier professional and international football matches.
“We’re proud to announce that the Rizal Memorial football stadium is now FIFA Quality Pro certified,” said E-Sports Managing Director Audris Romualdez. “We thank the PSC for their trust and the opportunity to build champions together.”
Also present at the forum were E-Sports General Manager Pam Romualdez, Joseph Apat from the Lanao del Norte Office of the Provincial Architect, and Department of Education football coach Cyril Olis. The event was supported by San Miguel Corporation, PSC, the Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and ArenaPlus.
PSC Chair Richard Bachmann expressed gratitude to E-Sports for helping bring new life to the historic venue. “The ultimate goal is to revitalize the field, and we’re thankful for the quality turf that will benefit everyone,” Bachmann said after receiving a large replica of the FIFA certificate from E-Sports officials.
The pitch underwent refurbishment in under a month and was tested on April 11. It officially received its certification on May 2. While the FIFA Quality Pro certification is valid for one year, the standard FIFA Quality certificate remains valid for three years. E-Sports will handle field maintenance for a year at no cost and has provided PSC personnel with training and equipment.
Beyond RMSC, E-Sports is also working on several projects nationwide. “We’re building the first and largest skate park in the Philippines and developing recreational spaces, obstacle courses, outdoor fitness areas, and multi-sport courts certified by FIFA, FIVB, ITF, and other international bodies,” added Romualdez.
In a related development, Lanao del Norte First District Representative-elect Imelda Dimaporo has enlisted E-Sports to assist in upgrading the Mindanao Civic Center, furthering the company’s impact on national sports infrastructure.
