Lastly, Caligdong revealed that he will be focusing more on his club and added that he is eager to take on coaching as a new challenge in his football career.
“Kakakuha ko lang ng C license course ko. I want to continue to inspire the kids, especially sa grassroots level. Kasi yung next plan ko is coaching so new challenge para sakin ‘yun at new mission para sakin to share my knowledge and ideas sa mga bagong generation. Also, focus ko lang ngayon is sa club ko and sa coaching ko sa Zobel and sa Green Archers Youth.”
Rumors about Caligdong's retirement from international football duties flooded social media on Wednesday evening, November 12.
This was fueled by a tweet of Melmac Sports Management - an organization that manages Filipino athletes of different sports including Caligdong - on November 2, that the former Azkals co-captain will make a big announcement this month.
Many speculated what the announcement would be. A post from Patrick Ace Bright, a member of the Azkals team management shed light on the issue.
“Big salute to @chieffy_13 on his retirement from international football. Thank you for inspiring so many people and for teaching us how one can be very successful but can still show so much humility. Thank you for making the country proud so many times. Truly one of the best filipino footballers of all time,” the post said.
Fans, teammates, and the Philippine football community were saddened by the announcement but wished Caligdong well and reminisced his contributions to the Azkals.