The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, through the Instituto Guimarães Rosa and the Embassy of Brazil in Manila, in partnership with the Quezon City Government and QCinema, will present a special screening of the Brazilian documentary The First Ones at Gateway Cinema as part of Quezon City’s celebration of National Women’s Month.
The First Ones tells the remarkable story of the pioneers who formed Brazil’s first Women’s National Football Team. At a time when women’s football faced strong social prejudice, and when the sport was even banned for women in Brazil for several decades, these athletes demonstrated extraordinary courage and determination. By challenging discrimination and insisting on their right to play, they helped transform women’s football in the country and paved the way for future generations of players.
The documentary highlights how sport can serve as a powerful instrument for social transformation. Football, in particular, has the ability to bring communities together, promote confidence and teamwork, and empower girls and young women to pursue opportunities both on and off the field. The achievements of the pioneers featured in the film laid the foundation for the global success of Brazilian women’s football, producing internationally celebrated players such as Marta, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
The screening is made possible thanks to the generous support of Olé Produções, the production company behind the documentary, which kindly granted permission for the Embassy of Brazil to present the film free of charge as part of the National Women’s Month activities in Quezon City.
The event also highlights the growing global visibility of women’s football. The Philippines recently hosted the first edition of the FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup, marking a historic milestone for women’s sport and demonstrating the country’s capacity to organize major international sporting events. Brazil participated in the tournament and won the championship title.
Beyond the world of sports, the screening provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of promoting women’s rights and expanding opportunities for women across all sectors of society. Brazil and the Philippines frequently collaborate in advancing gender equality in international forums. Initiatives such as this screening also seek to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries while highlighting stories that inspire dialogue, equality, and social inclusion.
Film: The First Ones
Country: Brazil
Genre: Documentary
Language: Portuguese (with English subtitles)
Venue: Gateway Cineplex 18, Quezon City
Date and time: 11 March 2026, at 4pm
Free admission upon previous registration.
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