Journo losing access to national team ‘coaching staff decision’
The Philippine Football Federation said it did not impose a ban on a reporter from covering the national women’s football team’s ongoing training camp that only aggravated the federation’s souring relationship with the press.
Breaking its silence since Venice Furio was told that her access was being revoked, the PFF explained that it is acting on the coaching staff’s desire in “minimizing distractions” during the camp aimed at preparing the squad for crack competitions during the year.
“To be clear, the PFF has not issued a ban on any journalists. Any decisions regarding limited access during training camps are solely based on the coaching staff’s professional assessment of the players’ best interests,” the PFF said late Friday, three days after Furio revealed her predicament on X (formerly Twitter). “Focused training, free from distractions, is considered paramount for optimal performance.”
The PFF added that while it “recognizes and values the vital role of journalists promoting and covering football” and that it “appreciates their commitment to sharing the stories of our athletes and fostering support for the team,” it is also seeking understanding with regards to access.
Comments not allowed
“The PFF remains committed to providing media access to official functions and public events. However, this does not include nor guarantee insider access to the federation or national teams. This ensures fairness and consistency for all media,” the PFF said.
“The PFF is dedicated to finding a balance that allows the team to prepare effectively while providing appropriate media engagement opportunities,” the federation added.
The full statement was also posted on the PFF’s Facebook page, but oddly prevents netizens from posting reactions on the comments section.
Furio has maintained that the incident came after an official relayed to her that “certain individuals” weren’t pleased with the views she expressed on social media regarding matters affecting the women’s football scene, countering the football federation’s side of the story.
The issue involving Furio, a fixture in the football beat who was among those who travelled to New Zealand to cover the Filipinas’ historic campaign in the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup, is the latest in the perceived hostility of the PFF leadership headed by president John Gutierrez towards the media.
