Davao City is set to elevate its annual Duaw Dabaw Festival with the introduction of a pickleball tournament, reflecting the city’s growing focus on expanding recreational and competitive sports offerings.
The inclusion of pickleball marks a new chapter for the festival, which continues to evolve as a major cultural and tourism event. According to city officials, the decision was made to introduce more dynamic activities that appeal to both residents and visiting participants, while also tapping into the rising popularity of the sport.
City Tourism Operations Office officer-in-charge Willenito P. Tormis Jr. said the initiative reflects Davao’s commitment to supporting emerging sports and encouraging broader community participation in athletic events.
The inaugural tournament will feature multiple divisions designed to accommodate different skill levels, with categories based on DUPR ratings and participant eligibility.
The Low Intermediate division is exclusive to Davao City residents with DUPR ratings below 3.49 and will include men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles events. Participants are required to present proof of residency, such as a government ID or barangay certification.
The High Intermediate category will open the competition to players from outside Davao, catering to athletes with DUPR ratings between 3.50 and 3.99 across all doubles formats. At the highest level, the Open category will feature men’s doubles for players rated between 4.0 and 4.5, also welcoming competitors from other regions.
Organisers have also outlined standard entry requirements, including proof of physical fitness and signed waivers acknowledging participation risks. Players are required to submit DUPR account verification as part of the registration process, while Low Intermediate entrants must also secure barangay certification in advance.
The addition of pickleball to the Duaw Dabaw Festival highlights the sport’s growing footprint in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, where interest in paddle sports continues to rise. The tournament is expected to further strengthen Davao’s position as an emerging hub for new and developing sports in the region.
