A year after Hidilyn Diaz’s epic Olympic win, the Philippines celebrates another victory delivered by a group of Filipinas.

On Tuesday, July 25 Filipinos online celebrated a momentous win as Filipina striker Sarina Bolden gave our country’s first goal at the FIFA World Cup for women’s soccer. The match against New Zealand ended 1-0.

Sarina Bolden’s win reminds us there are other Filipina athletes thriving in sports that aren’t basketball. From Hidilyn Diaz’s groundbreaking weightlifting win to Nesthy Petecio’s featherweight victory to Yuko Saso’s golf win, our female athletes just prove that Filipinas can bring more to the table for the Philippines.

While our country focuses more on basketball, these recent international wins show that our nation must shift focus to give more recognition to other sports we have the potential to excel. However, of course, athletes may not do this alone. The government and sports organizations need to start providing more financial support and facilities to help these Filipinos train and compete.

And they are Filipinos.

Some people are salty that our FIFA winners do not look like Filipinos despite being half-Filipinos. It’s an important reminder that regardless of our appearance or race if they represent the Philippines, they are Filipinos. We come in all shapes and sizes. 

Overall, may these achievements inspire many young athletes, especially young girls, to strive more when it comes to sports. 

Don’t miss the next FIFA Women’s World Cup game against Norway! Sunday, July 30, at 3 PM!

With input by Snow Schnabel