Melo Villareal
Philippines’ biggest pickleball hub opens in Negros Oriental
The rapidly expanding sport of pickleball experienced a significant boost with the grand opening of PlayPro Active Courts, now recognized as the largest pickleball facility in the country. Located in Sibulan, Negros Oriental, this state-of-the-art complex offers multiple courts equipped with modern amenities, attracting players of all ages and skill levels eager to participate in this exciting and socially engaging sport.
Negros Oriental provincial governor Manuel Sagarbaria, Philsouth president and general manager Louie Tijing, and Vietnamese pickleball sensations Quang Duong and Bao Duong.
The latest diversification project by Philsouth Properties and Development Corp., PAC, features 17 tournament-grade pickleball courts, 3 badminton courts, and 2 half-court basketball courts for 3-on-3 games.
“We envision PlayPro Active Courts as more than just a sports facility, but also a place where people can play, compete, connect, and elevate their game while building a stronger and healthier community,” says Philsouth president and general manager Louie Tijing.
The opening ceremonies were hosted by guests of honor including Negros Oriental provincial governor Manuel Sagarbaria, Philippine Pickleball League (PPL) president Aldus Corel dela Cruz, and Vietnamese pickleball stars Quang Duong and Bao Duong, who are professional athletes representing Wika Sports.
Tijing mentioned that as part of their long-term development plan, PlayPro Active Courts will soon expand the facility by adding 10 more pickleball courts—4 of which will be air-conditioned—as well as 3 table tennis courts and 2 tennis courts.
“This is our humble way of pursuing our vision of becoming the country’s leading hub for pickleball and active recreation by promoting active lifestyles, community engagement, and sports excellence,” he pointed out.
Tijing mentioned that PlayPro Active Courts, equipped with top-notch amenities and ample indoor space, are ready to host tournaments at all levels. It also serves as a welcoming home for athletes, enthusiasts, and families looking for a distinctive sporting experience.
He announced that PlayPro Active Courts will host its first major tournament, the PPL Visayas Open, scheduled from July 30 to August 2 and August 6-9. This event will bring together the top players from across the archipelago.
The final island cluster tournament, a two-part competition, is anticipated to attract as many as 2,300 athletes, including some internationally-ranked players.
Furthermore, Sagarbaria mentioned that opening the premier indoor court sports facility aligns with their goal to promote Negros Oriental and Dumaguete City as a sports tourism destination in Central Philippines.
He observed that Dumaguete and nearby towns collectively have around 300 pickleball courts, but PlayPro Active Courts is one of the few venues that meet tournament standards.
PlayPro Active Courts is a one-hectare sports complex located along the By-Pass Road in Sibulan. It is the first sports facility developed by Philsouth Properties, a company recognized for constructing mid-range housing developments, executive villages, and amusement theme parks throughout the province.
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