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Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio underscored the importance of sports development in the country, stressing that sports should be viewed as a long-term investment—not a waste of funds.

In a media interview by Scoreline.ph, Gregorio highlighted the PSC’s ongoing push to improve sports facilities nationwide, starting with the renovation of the Rizal Memorial Tennis Courts, which is expected to begin in the coming days.

“Sports is an investment,” said Gregorio. “It’s never a waste of money. When a child succeeds because of sports, when a community unites because of sports, that is something invaluable.”

Preparations for WTA Event in Manila

The PSC is gearing up to host a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament in January 2026, marking a major milestone for Philippine tennis. Gregorio said bleacher expansion is underway to increase spectator capacity.

“We hope to accommodate at least 2,000 people in January,” he shared. “If we want to bid for bigger WTA events in the future, we may need to move to a larger venue like New Clark City. The BCDA has given us ample land there for future sports development.”

Alex Eala Expected to Join

Filipina tennis star Alex Eala is set to headline the event, barring any scheduling conflict with the Australian Open.

“The only chance she won’t be able to play is if there’s a conflict with the Australian Open semifinals or finals,” Gregorio said. “But if she succeeds in Australia, we’ll all be very happy. And if she becomes available after the early rounds, then she will join us.”

Gregorio emphasized that hosting a WTA event is not only a showcase of world-class tennis but also an opportunity to highlight Filipino talent.

“One day, we hope to see more Alex Ealas. I’m sure she also wants to be the reason tennis will grow bigger in the Philippines. And that is very exciting.”

WTA in PH for the Next Three Years

The PSC aims to host a WTA tournament annually for the next three years, making international tennis a recurring highlight in the Philippine sports calendar.

“We’re committed,” Gregorio said. “This is just the beginning.”

The exciting and physically demanding sport of trail running will take center stage during the Philippine Trail Running Association (Philtra) National Championships, set to be held in Danao, Cebu from March 21 to 23. 

This event marks the conclusion of a series of qualifying competitions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao last year, and will play a key role in selecting the new Philippine trail running team for international events.

Philtra vice president and secretary-general Tin Ferrera, along with manager Gerard Tipones, are anticipating nearly 700 participants, including the country's top runners and some international competitors. 

Leading the local runners are Larry Apolinario from Antique on the men’s side, and Elizabeth Dangadang from Baguio City on the women’s side.