The club was founded in 2021. Its team colors are red and white. Currently one of the top teams in the PFL, Cebu F.C. play its home games at the Dynamic Herb Sports Complex in Talisay City, Cebu.
The players also carry the moniker “The Gentle Giants,” a tribute to the whale sharks found in the town of Oslob, Cebu.
Nathanael Ace Villanueva
Jersey number: 25
Position: Goalkeeper
SunStar Sports: How does it feel to represent Cebu Football Club as part of the Gentle Giants?
“It is an honor and a humbling experience to represent Cebu F.C. because I have witnessed how our team—the youngest club in the league—grew. It means a lot to wear and represent the colors of the club. It actually is a privilege to represent Cebu and its people.”
Are there any specific rituals or routines you follow to get into the right mindset before a match?
“On game days, I start my days by making my black coffee. I usually take time to sit still and allow myself to be in the right mindset by visualising game scenarios.”
Football is known for its passionate fanbase. Can you share an experience where the support from fans had a significant impact on you or the team during a game?
“The Cebuanos—who are the 12th man of the club—never fail during our home games in Cebu. They give the club the extra push and motivation during the game.”
Apart from football, what are some of your hobbies or passions outside of the game?
“I like to be at the beach and go free diving or scuba diving. I also enjoy cooking, hiking and other activities that can help me stay active.”
Baris Tasci
Jersey number: 13
Position: Left back
SunStar Sports: How does it feel to represent Cebu Football Club as part of the Gentle Giants?
“It’s an honor to represent the first club representing Cebu with its own home stadium. The support from the fans, the feeling of belonging—it’s all very motivating.”
How do you manage the expectations and maintain a positive mindset, both on and off the field, to consistently perform at your best?
“You cannot always be your best. That’s normal in everything you do so you just need to know how to manage the bad days and keep giving your best consistently.”
Football is known for its passionate fanbase. Can you share an experience where the support from fans had a significant impact on you or the team during a game?
“You can really feel the support during home games. It helps lift the team up and motivates us to play better. You can feel it with the academy kids as well when they come to you and want to play with you.”
Apart from football, what are some of your hobbies or passions outside of the game?
“I like to play other sports like volleyball, table tennis, diving, hiking and other outdoor activities. Traveling as well.”
John Renz Saldivar
Number: 12
Position: Defender
SunStar Sports: How does it feel to represent Cebu Football Club as part of the Gentle Giants?
“Playing for Cebu F.C. has been a dream come true for me, and I am grateful for every opportunity to play alongside my teammates.”
Are there any specific rituals or routines you follow to get into the right mindset before a match?
“Before the game, I pray and watch football highlights.”
How do you manage the expectations and maintain a positive mindset, both on and off the field, to consistently perform at your best?
“I would set realistic goals, and stay motivated despite setbacks or challenges.”
If you could play any other sport professionally, which one would it be and why?
“Probably chess because I am good at it.”
Steven Patalinghug
Jersey number: 33
Position: Midfielder
SunStar Sports: How does it feel to represent Cebu Football Club as part of the Gentle Giants?
“Being part of the club and being able to wear the club jersey brings me so much pride and happiness. To me, it means I have achieved my childhood dream of becoming a professional football player. The club colors and the logo will always be a reminder for me that your circumstances should not stop you from achieving your dreams.”
How do you manage the expectations and maintain a positive mindset, both on and off the field, to consistently perform at your best?
“I tell myself to trust in our coach and the players. There were times I made errors on the field, but I learned to keep a positive mindset. The bond among players and staff also helps me from beating myself up if ever I make mistakes. We motivate and lift each other up.”
Apart from football, what are some of your hobbies or passions outside of the game?
“During our days off, I like to just stay at home and relax by watching movies or listening to music with my family. I make sure I spend quality time with them during the weekend.”
If you could play any other sport professionally, which one would it be and why?
“I might go for volleyball because this is also another sport my neighbors in Lapu-Lapu City play.”
Ibrahim Moro
Jersey number: 4
Position: Midfielder
SunStar Sports: How does it feel to represent Cebu Football Club as part of the Gentle Giants?
“It feels good to represent Cebu F.C. It means a lot for me to wear the club colors.”
Are there any specific rituals or routines you follow to get into the right mindset before a match?
“Before the game, I talk to my family and then listen to more music.”
How do you manage the expectations and maintain a positive mindset, both on and off the field, to consistently perform at your best?
“I know that I am a professional footballer and my mindset is to do well on the pitch.”
Apart from football, what are some of your hobbies or passions outside of the game?
“I like to be home watching some movies, listening to music, playing volleyball or basketball and then having more rest.”
If you could play any other sport professionally, which one would it be and why?
“I would play volleyball because I am good at it.”