Cebuano Football Prodigy Bryant Julyant Monsanto Makes U-17 National Team
A new source of pride has emerged from the heart of Cebu, as Bryant Julyant Monsanto, a 16-year-old native of Balamban, has been officially selected to join the 2026 U-17 Philippine Men's National Football Team. This talented young athlete is set to represent the country in international competitions, beginning with the Asean U-17 Boys' Championship in Surabaya, Indonesia, starting April 11.
From Local Fields to National Spotlight
Bryant Julyant Monsanto, the son of businessman Bryant and Jomilyn Monsanto, began his football journey with the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Football Club in Balamban. He quickly became a key player for Balamban FC, showcasing his skills in local Cebu tournaments where his potential was first recognized.
His big break came in 2023 when the coach and owner of Makati FC visited Cebu for a tournament. Impressed by his abilities, Monsanto was offered a spot on the Manila-based team. Initially hesitant due to his youth and the prospect of being away from home, he was encouraged by his father to seize the opportunity.
"At first, he didn't want to go because he would be alone," shared his father, Bryant. "He was still very young when he went to Manila—around 12 or 13 years old, and it was his first time traveling alone. We really encouraged him to just try because it would be a waste of opportunity."
A Dream Realized Through Perseverance
Monsanto embraced the challenge, moving to the capital nearly two years ago to pursue his football dreams. His dedication has now paid off spectacularly, as confirmed by a letter from the Philippine Football Federation dated March 29, 2026.
The letter stated: "We are pleased to inform you that you have been selected as part of the U-17 Philippine Men's National Football Team under the Philippine Football Federation. Your hard work, dedication, and performance during the tryouts have earned you a place in the team as we prepare for the Asean U-17 Boys' Championship 2026."
His father expressed overwhelming pride, saying, "When we read the letter from the PFF saying he made it, we got goosebumps. All his hard work far from home paid off. He was alone in Manila at such a young age, and then he achieved becoming part of the national team. We are extremely happy."
International Debut and Historic Achievement
As a center back defender, Monsanto will join the national team in facing not only Asian nations but also teams from Australia. The Philippines is grouped in Group B with Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, with their first match scheduled against Thailand on April 12 at the Gelora Joko Samudro Stadium.
This selection marks a historic moment for Balamban, as Monsanto becomes only the second athlete from the town to make a national team, following Aldrich Ramos, an original member of the Gilas Pilipinas basketball team. Interestingly, both athletes hail from Barangay Abucayan in Balamban, Cebu.
While the team's overall strength remains to be tested in upcoming matches, one thing is certain: Bryant Julyant Monsanto has already etched his name into the annals of Philippine sports history, transitioning from local circuit champion to international representative.
