MANILA — South Korean coach Jang Min Seok has taken greater control of Aguilas UMAK FC’s football direction after being named club chairman while retaining his head coaching post, with the former Korean international setting his sights on building the Philippine side into a championship contender capable of reaching the Asian stage.
The expanded role places Jang at the helm of both the club’s first team and its long-term football program as Aguilas UMAK (University of Makati) FC seeks to establish itself as a competitive and sustainable force in the Philippines Football League.
“I did not come to the Philippines simply to coach a team. I came here to build something that can last,” Jang said.
“Our goal is to win, but winning alone is not enough. I want to help build a strong club, develop young Filipino players and create opportunities for them to compete internationally.”
An AFC Pro License holder, Jang will oversee areas beyond first-team competition, including player development, youth programs, infrastructure, international partnerships and the club’s long-term football strategy.
Aguilas UMAK FC president Mike Atayde and Luis Atayde welcomed Jang’s expanded responsibilities as the club continues to strengthen its football program.
Jang said he hopes to combine his experience in South Korean football with the talent available in the Philippines to develop Aguilas UMAK into a stronger force domestically and eventually in regional competition.
“Aguilas UMAK FC is not just a team for one season. We are building for the future,” he said. “My dream is to make this club a champion and take Aguilas UMAK FC onto the Asian stage.”
Jang attended Hongik University and emerged as a highly regarded prospect in the 1995 class before being selected No. 1 overall by Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors FC in the 1999 K-League draft.
He also represented South Korea at the youth and senior international levels during his playing career.
Following his retirement as a player, Jang moved into coaching and earned advanced coaching qualifications through the Asian Football Confederation and Korea Football Association.
With Jang now directing both football operations and the first team, Aguilas UMAK FC is banking on a long-term development program aimed not merely at immediate results but at building a club capable of sustained success in Philippine football and, eventually, regional competition./PN
