A New Era for Philippine Pickleball
Developed by Philsouth Properties and Development Corp., PlayPro Active Courts boasts an impressive array of facilities: 17 tournament-grade pickleball courts, 3 badminton courts, and 2 half-court basketball areas for 3-on-3 action. Located in one of the Visayas' most scenic provincial settings, this sprawling complex is an instant landmark for sports enthusiasts.
The grand opening drew significant attention, with dignitaries like Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbaria in attendance. Also gracing the event were Philippine Pickleball League president Aldus Corel dela Cruz and renowned Vietnamese pickleball stars Quang Duong and Bao Duong of Wika Sports, highlighting the facility's international appeal from day one.
Vision Beyond the Courts: Building Community
Philsouth President and General Manager Louie Tijing emphasized that PlayPro Active Courts is far more than just a collection of courts. He articulated a clear vision: “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.” This fan-first approach sets the stage for a truly inclusive sporting hub.
The PPL Visayas Open: A Premier Showdown
The facility is wasting no time in making its mark on the competitive scene. PlayPro Active Courts will host its inaugural major event, the PPL Visayas Open, across two action-packed legs from July 30 to August 2 and August 6 to 9.
The tournament is expected to attract up to 2,300 athletes, including top-ranked international players, making it one of the largest pickleball gatherings ever held in the Visayas.
The two-leg format also serves as the final island cluster stop of the PPL's regional series, bringing together the best players from across the archipelago to battle for regional supremacy.
Grand Ambitions: Expanding the Pickleball Empire
The long-term vision for PlayPro Active Courts extends well beyond its successful launch. Louie Tijing has announced plans to expand the complex with 10 additional pickleball courts, including four air-conditioned courts to enhance the playing experience.
The expansion will also include three table tennis courts and two tennis courts, further establishing the venue as a premier destination for active recreation.
This phased development reflects a broader ambition to create a lasting legacy by transforming the facility into the country's leading hub for pickleball and community sports. Beyond riding the sport's growing popularity, the goal is to promote active lifestyles, strengthen community engagement, and elevate sporting excellence.
Negros Oriental's Ace: Boosting Sports Tourism
For Governor Sagarbaria, the significance of the facility goes far beyond pickleball itself. He noted that while Dumaguete City and nearby municipalities have around 300 pickleball courts, very few meet tournament standards.
PlayPro Active Courts fills that gap and plays a key role in the province's broader vision of establishing Negros Oriental and Dumaguete as a leading sports tourism destination in Central Philippines.
Its location also adds to its appeal. Situated in Sibulan, just outside the laid-back university city of Dumaguete, the venue offers easy access to scenic coastlines and complements the area's growing reputation as a destination for extended stays. The addition of a world-class pickleball complex gives visitors yet another reason to explore—and return to—the region.
Beyond the Urban Core: Pickleball's Resurgence
While pickleball's rapid rise has largely been associated with major urban centres such as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, the opening of PlayPro Active Courts highlights the sport's continued expansion beyond the country's biggest cities.
The new facility signals that Negros Oriental is ready to establish itself as a key player in the Philippines' fast-growing pickleball landscape.
