The Cebu Pickleball Open Tournament 2026, featuring the Blazing Torch and True Edge Cup, delivered an exciting showcase of competition and camaraderie. Organised by the Antorcha De La Libertad Lodge No. 2 and Espada De Rectitud Lodge No. 3 of The Sovereign Grand Lodge of Visayas and Mindanao–Gran Logia Soberana del Archipielago Filipino (TSGLVM–GLSdAF), the one-day event successfully brought together players, supporters, and pickleball enthusiasts to celebrate one of the world's fastest-growing sports.
Key Takeaways from the Cebu Pickleball Open
- The Cebu Pickleball Open 2026 successfully blended competitive play with significant charitable fundraising efforts.
- Bombie & Karlo Ledesma, Sheina Martinez & Selena Monique Olo, and Karyll Salas & Dwayne Constantine Balibalos clinched top open division titles.
- The event fostered strong community bonds and showcased the rapid growth of pickleball across Cebu and its surrounding areas.
- Crucial support from key partners ensured a smoothly run and impactful tournament, setting a high standard for future events.
More Than Just a Game: Uniting Cebu Through Pickleball
Hermano Allan Delantar of TSGLVM articulated the tournament's ambitious threefold mission. Beyond the thrill of competition, the event aimed to strengthen bonds of camaraderie through sportsmanship, raise vital funds for charitable and humanitarian initiatives, and aggressively promote pickleball's growth in Cebu. A portion of the proceeds is specifically earmarked for a humanitarian cause, chosen by the organizers and approved by TSGLVM–GLSdAF, extending the event's positive impact far beyond the court.
Collaborative Spirit Drives Success
The scale and smooth execution of the Cebu Pickleball Open 2026 were a direct result of incredible community and corporate backing. Key figures like Howard Lazarte of Pickle Rank, Mhark Anthony Lao, Clint Libarnes, Dave Baldoza of ADB Var Rental, and Bola Pickleball PH played pivotal roles. Their invaluable support underscored the collaborative spirit essential for growing sports events and fostering local talent.
Open Division Crowns New Pickleball Royalty
The open categories delivered a spectacle of high-level pickleball, culminating in some memorable victories. In the Men’s Doubles Open, the formidable duo of Bombie Ledesma and Karlo Ledesma emerged as champions, triumphing over Alfredo Arradaza III and Eliezer Yac. The Women’s Doubles Open saw Sheina Martinez and Selena Monique Olo claim the top spot after a hard-fought battle against Karyll Salas and Jeanette Eduave. Redemption, however, was sweet for Salas, who later partnered with Dwayne Constantine Balibalos to seize the Mixed Doubles title, besting Kaye Layosa and Janssen Bryle Ricana.
Rising Stars Shine in the Beginners' Brackets
Even the Beginners’ category was packed with excitement, highlighting the emerging talent within Cebu's pickleball scene. Marshy Vidal and Justine Cañete showcased exceptional teamwork to win the Mixed Doubles, narrowly defeating Louise Marvi Pinos and Ken Harvey Pinos. The Men’s Doubles title went to Kent Homer Gongob and John Philip Pogoy, who outplayed Ken Harvey Pinos and Caesar Ian Ortega. Rounding out the beginner champions, Niña Sequino and Lyka Campugan dominated the Women’s Doubles, overcoming Karissa Lopez and Rizalda Maunes.
The Future of Pickleball Thrives in Cebu
The Cebu Pickleball Open 2026 was more than just a competition; it was a vibrant celebration of community, sportsmanship, and shared purpose. By seamlessly blending high-energy competition with significant charitable contributions and a clear focus on sport promotion, the event has undeniably set a benchmark for how pickleball can continue to flourish in Cebu, leaving a lasting positive impact both on and off the court.
