FRESH OFF their UAAP Season 87 boys’ football glory, UST Junior Golden Booters Alphan Lomibao and Josh Moleje made history once again, this time on the global stage.
The duo played pivotal roles in steering the Philippine Under-16 boys’ national football team to its first youth international championship in 12 years in the Lion City Cup on Sunday, July 13, at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.
Philippines emerged unbeaten in the four-nation tournament, notching wins over host Singapore (2-0), Cambodia (3-1) and settling for a draw against Hong Kong (1-1) to finish atop the standings.
Winning two historic championships in the same year made the moment even more meaningful for Moleje, who was representing the Philippines for the third time in his young career.
“Knowing I was part of that moment makes me feel proud and deeply grateful. It’s definitely one of the biggest highlights of my football journey so far,” the Bacolod-native told The Flame.
“To experience both victories in one year [UAAP and Lion City Cup] with two teams I deeply care about is humbling. It reminds me why I play, not just for myself, but for my teammates, my coaches, my family and for the country,” the 16-year-old said.
Season 87 Best Midfielder Moleje also delivered the opening goal in the 65th minute of the decisive win against Singapore.
Moleje is set to take another leap forward as he heads to Valencia, Spain to train with La Liga club Levante UD through a football scholarship, all while awaiting his next national team call-up.
For center back and national team captain Lomibao, the victory was more than just a win, it was a moment of honor and pride for the flag they carried on their backs.
“Everyone is very proud and grateful for this opportunity to represent the Philippines. We want to show the world what we are capable of,” the 16-year-old skipper told the Football Association Singapore.
Having come through the national grassroots system, both Lomibao and Moleje believe their journey reflects what is possible with the right support and investment.
“There’s so much talent in the country… If we keep building on what we have now, I truly believe we’ll see even greater results for Philippine football in the years ahead,” Moleje said.
The Lion City Cup stands as one of the longest-running youth football tournaments in Asia, which was created in 1977. F
