Freddy Gonzalez will oversee the men's football team, while Jeff Cheng will remain as manager of the women's squad.
It's a new era and a new direction for Philippine football.
The Philippine Football Federation on Thursday announced the appointment of former national team player Alfredo "Freddy" Gonzalez as the Director of National Teams.
The 46-year-old Gonzalez will also serve as the concurrent manager of the Philippine Azkals, the men's national football team, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup second round qualifiers this March against Iraq.
"Mr. Gonzalez’s appointment represent the start of a new era and direction for the PMNT. As a former national team player himself, his passion to play for the country, his football knowledge, and his experience all give him a clear understanding on what needs to be done to be successful at the international level," new PFF president John Gutierrez said, as posted on the federation's website.
"Freddy has always been driven to win. His drive for excellence, professionalism, attention to detail, and great organizational skills are important qualities we need. We cannot wait for him to get started."
Gonzalez played for the Philippines from 1997 to 2002.
"President John Gutierrez’s mandate is to improve all our national teams. We have been talking about the possibility of me helping out the national teams during his campaign, which is something that I was also open to doing," he said.
"We will continue to work on assembling the strongest national team and make sure that they are supported. With consistency, we can hopefully see changes translate into improved results on the field," Gonzalez added.
The appointment comes two days after longtime manager Dan Palami was stepping down after 15 years as a courtesy.
"In deference to the new admin, I would want to give them a free hand as well," Palami told One Sports' Paolo del Rosario. "I think it's time to give others a chance as well."
Gutierrez earlier told One Sports that the resignation gave others a window of opportunity.
"But since there was no opening, sir Dan was still there taking on all these challenges, it was impossible for these individuals to come in and help," the PFF president said.
"But right now, because of the courtesy of Sir Dan, then of course these individuals waiting in the wings to get their chance, now they have their window."
The PFF though made it clear that the Philippine women's national football team will still be managed by Jeff Cheng.
"We have the highest confidence in his leadership. We look forward to seeing our female squad achieve more, and inspire more young girls to become excellent footballers," Gutierrez said.