When people talk about Philippine football, one name has consistently remained in the conversation for over a decade — Jovin Hervas Bedic. A symbol of Ilonggo resilience and a living testament to the unbreakable football culture of Barotac Nuevo, Bedic has carved out a career that blends passion, leadership, and historic achievements.
The Making of a Footballer
Born on June 8, 1990, Bedic grew up in a place where football is more than a sport — it’s a way of life. Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, known as the “Football Capital of the Philippines,” has produced countless players who have represented the country, but Bedic’s rise stands out. From his early years playing on dusty fields to competing in top-tier competitions, his journey reflects the dedication of a player who refused to settle for mediocrity.
Since joining Kaya FC–Iloilo in 2013, Bedic has become the face of the club. Donning jersey number 7, he has been at the forefront of Kaya’s most successful campaigns — helping secure the Philippines Football League (PFL) championship, multiple Copa Paulino Alcantara titles, and taking the club into the continental spotlight of the AFC Champions League (ACL).
One of the defining moments of his career came in 2021, when Bedic scored a stunning goal against Ulsan Hyundai, the reigning Asian champions, during Kaya’s ACL debut. That strike didn’t just make headlines — it etched his name into history as one of the few Ilonggos to score at Asia’s highest level of club football.
A National Team Warrior
On the international stage, Bedic has been a steady contributor to the Philippines Men’s National Team (Azkals) since 2014, delivering crucial performances in regional tournaments. His equalizer against Thailand in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup remains one of his most iconic moments — a goal that salvaged a vital draw and proved his knack for delivering under pressure.
While his stats — dozens of goals for Kaya, double-digit national team caps, and awards like the Copa Paulino Alcantara Golden Ball — speak volumes, Bedic’s influence stretches far beyond the pitch. As a captain, he’s a mentor to younger players. As a proud Ilonggo, he’s an inspiration for footballers from Western Visayas who dream of making it to the professional stage.
What’s Next for Bedic?
At 35, Bedic shows no signs of slowing down. Kaya FC–Iloilo continues to aim higher — both in domestic dominance and continental relevance — and Bedic remains at the heart of that ambition. Whether it’s leading his club to another title or mentoring the next generation of Ilonggo football stars, his journey is far from over.