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Transgender Soccer Player and Manager Heloïse Haenel Issues Powerful Call Against Transphobia in Philippine Football
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On September 29, 2025, Heloïse Haenel, a leading transgender soccer player and manager, made headlines after delivering a forceful statement denouncing transphobia in Philippine football. Speaking through Outsports, Haenel declared, “Transphobia does not make a good football team,” addressing both the local sporting community and a global audience to advocate for respect and equality for transgender athletes .
The Philippines, while home to a vibrant and growing LGBTQ+ community, has experienced ongoing debates about transgender participation in sports. While there have been incremental advances—such as local clubs increasingly welcoming LGBTQ+ players—discrimination and exclusion remain prominent challenges. The absence of comprehensive national anti-discrimination policies for sports further complicates matters, leaving decisions about inclusion to regional bodies or individual teams .
Haenel’s statement comes at a pivotal time, as sports organizations worldwide grapple with questions regarding transgender participation. The International Olympic Committee, for instance, has updated its guidelines several times in recent years, emphasizing both fairness and the right to compete, though policies remain inconsistent from one federation to the next .
Heloïse Haenel stands out not only for her athletic prowess but also for her leadership as a manager and advocate. She has played for and managed teams in the Philippines since 2023, earning respect for her technical expertise and her commitment to fair play. Haenel is known for creating inclusive team cultures, ensuring that players of all gender identities feel welcome and valued .
Her outspoken stance against transphobia is part of a broader effort to challenge exclusion and bias in sports. “It’s not just about being allowed to play,” Haenel explained in her recent interview. “It’s about being respected as a whole person—on and off the pitch” .
Haenel’s remarks have reverberated across social media, with LGBTQ+ advocates, athletes, and allies expressing support. On Threads, Outsports amplified her message, prompting further discussion about the responsibilities of coaches, clubs, and leagues to foster inclusive environments .
Internationally, LGBTQ+ sports organizations have echoed Haenel’s call for action. The Human Rights Campaign noted that such statements are vital in countries where legal and social protections for transgender people remain limited . Meanwhile, global sporting federations are being urged to clarify and harmonize their policies to ensure consistency and fairness for all competitors .
Transgender athletes in the Philippines continue to encounter significant barriers, including discrimination from peers, lack of institutional support, and social stigma. Despite a growing movement for equality, progress is hampered by deeply entrenched gender norms and the absence of national legislation explicitly protecting LGBTQ+ people in sports .
Local LGBTQ+ organizations, such as the Philippines’ LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and advocacy groups like Bahaghari, have called for urgent reforms to ensure that transgender athletes are not only permitted to compete but are also shielded from harassment and abuse .
Haenel’s advocacy represents a growing movement within international sport to address exclusion and discrimination. Her leadership in the Philippines is seen as a model for others seeking to build more inclusive teams and leagues. As conversations continue, advocates stress the importance of education, policy reform, and visibility for transgender athletes .
“The goal is for every athlete, regardless of gender identity, to be able to compete at the highest level without fear or prejudice,” Haenel stated. “Football is about teamwork and respect. That must apply to every player” .
As the sporting world continues to evolve, the impact of advocates like Heloïse Haenel will be felt far beyond the pitch, offering hope and inspiration to LGBTQ+ athletes everywhere.
