A New Sporting Powerhouse Emerges in the Visayas
Developed by Philsouth Properties and Development Corp., PlayPro Active Courts is a monumental achievement. It features an incredible 17 tournament-grade pickleball courts, setting a new national standard. But the vision extends beyond pickleball, with 3 badminton courts and 2 half-court basketball facilities for thrilling 3-on-3 play, all nestled within one of the Visayas' most stunning provincial landscapes.
The grand opening was a star-studded affair, drawing local dignitaries like Negros Oriental governor Manuel Sagarbaria. Also in attendance were Philippine Pickleball League president Aldus Corel dela Cruz and Vietnamese pickleball sensations Quang Duong and Bao Duong, professional athletes representing Wika Sports who are well-known on the Southeast Asian circuit.
The Visionary Behind the Courts
Louie Tijing, President and General Manager of Philsouth, articulated the profound ambition behind this project. "We envision PlayPro Active Courts as more than just a sports facility," Tijing stated, "but also a place where people can play, compete, connect, and elevate their game while building a stronger and healthier community." This isn't just about building courts; it's about fostering a vibrant sporting ecosystem.
Tournament Action Kicks Off Big
This isn't just a grand opening; it's a call to arms for competitive play. PlayPro Active Courts will immediately launch into its first major event: the PPL Visayas Open. This highly anticipated tournament will unfold across two legs, running from July 30 to August 2 and August 6 to 9. Organizers expect a staggering 2,300 athletes, including top-ranked international players, to converge, making it one of the largest pickleball gatherings the Visayas has ever witnessed. Its two-part structure positions it as the final island cluster leg of the PPL’s regional series, promising an intense showcase of talent from across the archipelago.
Ambitious Expansion Plans Ahead
The long-term strategy for PlayPro Active Courts is equally bold. Louie Tijing revealed plans for a significant expansion: 10 additional pickleball courts (with 4 of these being air-conditioned!), 3 table tennis courts, and 2 full-sized tennis courts. This phased approach underscores a genuine commitment to building a lasting legacy rather than simply capitalizing on the sport's current momentum. Tijing emphasized, "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."
Negros Oriental: The Next Sports Tourism Destination?
Governor Manuel Sagarbaria highlighted the facility's broader impact, extending well beyond mere sport. The Dumaguete City area and its surrounding municipalities already boast approximately 300 pickleball courts, demonstrating the sport's deep roots here. However, PlayPro Active Courts stands out as one of the few venues truly meeting international tournament standards. Sagarbaria sees this as a crucial step in positioning Negros Oriental and Dumaguete as a premier sports tourism destination in the Central Philippines.
The location itself makes a compelling case. Sibulan, just outside the vibrant university city of Dumaguete, offers a relaxed atmosphere, stunning coastline, and a growing reputation as a destination that rewards longer visits. A world-class pickleball facility only adds another powerful reason for athletes and enthusiasts to explore and return to this beautiful region.
Beyond Metro Manila: A National Pickleball Boom
The pickleball revolution has been well-documented across urban centers like Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The launch of PlayPro Active Courts sends a clear message: this phenomenon extends far beyond the major cities. Negros Oriental is not just participating in the boom; it intends to be at the very epicenter of it, charting a new course for the sport's national development and solidifying its place as a true sporting hub.
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