John Anthony Gutierrez took the place of Mariano “Nonong” Araneta as president of the Philippine Football Federation on Saturday.
Gutierrez, who represents Bukidnon in the PFF board of governors, was elected as the new head of the federation following an Extraordinary Congress held at the Bellevue Hotel in Muntinlupa City.
The head of the PFF will lead the organization for the next four years, from 2023-2027, after Araneta stepped down after 13 years.
Araneta will stay on as FIFA Council Member and AFF Vice President until 2027.
“They just have to love football. They just have to be passionate about football. They just have to be transparent (about their programs). And there should be no corruption (in the federation),” said Araneta on the new leadership.
FIFA Council Member Kohzo Tashima of Japan and FIFA Regional Director for Asia and Oceania Sanjeevan Balasingam were around to witness the proceedings.
Joining Gutierrez in the PFF Executive Committee are Vice-President Lawrence Lemuel Fortun; Second Vice-President Jay Adriatico and Female Member Isabella Francesca Fernando
Named to the board of governors were Luzon representatives Rufino Arellano, Virgilio Imperial, Lovely Gladys Mae Tababa, Alvin Yalung
Representing Visayas are Elmer Gallardo, Rodney Orale, Renee Songalia, Roceller Sumbillo, while Irvin Banga, Gemayel Gampong, Stephen Gorgonio, Damsel Merced from Mindanao.