Kaya FC-Iloilo Signs Fitch Arboleda and Jhan-Jhan Melliza The club's first offseason acquisitions look to reinforce Kaya's attacking core.

Kaya FC–Iloilo is excited to announce the latest additions to the 2021 roster: Fitch Arboleda and Jesus Melliza. Formerly of Stallion Laguna, the two players are experienced Philippine Football League veterans, who will provide an immediate boost to Kaya’s evolving squad.

Fitch Johnson starred for the University of the East during his college years, and featured regularly in the U-19 and U-22 National Squads. He’s since been called up several times to the Azkals, where he put his proficient and mature brand of football on display. Hailing from Romblon, the 28 year-old grew up in a football family that produced a number of decorated players, and coaches. Funnily enough, his football siblings are also named Fitch.

“Jhan-Jhan” Melliza, will be quite familiar to Kaya fans, especially after last season’s encounter with Stallion in the PFL Bubble. Down 1-0, the super fast forward scored the equalizer for Laguna and denied Iloilo all three points. Had Kaya not conceded, they would’ve secured a shot at claiming the title in the final match against United City FC.

Kaya won’t have to worry about a repeat in 2021, though, as the 28 year-old Iloilo native is all set to represent his hometown, alongside fellow Ilonggos Jovin Bedic and Shirmar Felongco. He also joins his former FEU teammates Arnel Amita, Eric Giganto, and Audie Menzi, with whom he experienced back-to-back UAAP titles. From now on, Melliza’s goals will no longer be a point of frustration for Kaya faithful, but instead, a reason for celebration.

Fitch played as a forward, and in various midfield roles during his time in Laguna, while Jhan was primarily deployed in Stallion’s front line. However, both players have proven to be versatile and able to play multiple positions, allowing Coach Yu Hoshide room to slot them in wherever needed.

Such versatility helps Kaya a significant amount, as the club attempts to shape a squad that will push for titles, while keeping a reasonable budget. As both men are experienced veterans entering their athletic primes, the club is extremely excited for what the two bring not only to Kaya’s upcoming season, but for the foreseeable future as well.