By Vince Matthew Jaramilla

With only one other delegate from the Philippines, Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraw Booter Leoven Jay Gatungay is set to carry the country’s name in the July 2025 Asia Football Showcase (AFS) Pro Trials program to be held from July 13 to July 26 in Bangkok, Thailand.

The green-and-gold midfielder received the invitation back in January 17, but the news was only publicized by the San Carlos City Negros Football Club in a Facebook post last Thursday, June 5.

In an online interview with FEU Advocate, Gatungay mentioned how he could not contain his joy as his sacrifices to achieve the “once-in-a-lifetime chance” paid off.

“Hindi ko mapigilang ngumiti at magpasalamat (I can’t help but smile and be grateful). It felt like all my sacrifices, the training, the sleepless nights, the ups and downs were worth it… This could be the next big step for me. I also felt motivated to prepare even harder, kasi alam kong once-in-a-lifetime chance 'to and I want to give my best,” he said.

Gatungay shared how AFS was not his original plan, initially eyeing a football academy also in Thailand. However, the latter would have cost him a considerable amount for his everyday needs, something that AFS provided for less.

“Although it required payment, it was a much better and more practical setup. For one week, they provide free food, laundry, airport transfers, and accommodation in a five-star hotel so I would actually spend less overall compared to the first option,” the Tamaraw Booter revealed.

The Negros Occidental native also highlighted the significance of the Pro Trials as a stepping stone due to the level of play.

“I’ll be training and competing with players from different parts of the world—Japanese, Spanish, Europeans, and Africans. Being around that level of diversity and talent will challenge me to grow and improve not just as a footballer, but also as a person,” he elaborated.

With such a big chance at hand, he has been preparing “in all aspects physically, mentally, and emotionally.” Gatungay also stated that he reviews his and professional midfielders’ games to then incorporate in his skills training.

Beyond the UAAP

After the Tamaraw Booters recaptured the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s football title last Season 87, some of the Morayta-based athletes ventured into the Philippines Football League under the Philippine Football Federation Youth National Team.

Meanwhile, Gatungay competed in the 7’s Football League last February to May with the Cavite General Football Club (FC), even being recognized as an All-Star in the tournament. The Generals eventually ended their run in the quarterfinals.

With the AFS slot, the FEU midfielder continues to carve his name outside the UAAP, something he showed pride for.

“It feels really fulfilling and humbling. The UAAP has been a big part of my growth, but achieving something outside of it reminds me… that the hard work I’ve been putting in is starting to pay off in bigger stages. Nakaka-proud din kasi I know I’m representing not just myself, but also my school, my city, and everyone who believed in me,” he said.

While the opportunity can be overwhelming, Gatungay ensured that he remains level-headed as he sets out to leave a strong impression.

“My mindset is simple: show up, stay humble, and work harder than anyone else on the field. I always carry the belief that you have to suffer to thrive. All the sacrifices, all the pain, it’s part of the process,” the Tamaraw Booter emphasized.

As of writing, the other Filipino representative for the showcase has yet to be publicly announced.

The AFS Pro Trials is a sporting event where players from different countries come together to train and play in front of scouts and coaches from professional FCs around Asia and Europe, in hopes of securing chances with the various clubs.

(Photo by Gwyneth Mendoza/FEU Advocate)