CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan — Bulacan has launched its first-ever province-wide pickleball league, with Vice Governor Alexis C. Castro leading the opening of the All Star Champions Pickleball League (ACPBL) Makata Cup on Saturday (October 17)) at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium.
The tournament marks a milestone in the development of pickleball in the province, bringing together teams to compete in a sport that continues to gain popularity among Filipinos.
In partnership with Topspin Sports, the opening ceremony featured a cheerdance routine, a team presentation, and an oath-taking ceremony, officially bringing together pickleball players, clubs, and sports enthusiasts from different parts of the province.
Following the successful staging of basketball and volleyball tournaments under the Makata Cup, pickleball was introduced as another competitive sporting event through which local talents could be showcased.
Castro initiated the league as part of his continuing vision to promote inclusive sports programs and provide emerging disciplines with opportunities to gain recognition and participation across Bulacan.
“Ang mga naglalaro nito, ‘yan ‘yung mga busy sa trabaho, ang dami na nating kababayang naglalaro ng pickleball, kailangan ma-promote din natin ‘yung larong pickleball sa Bulacan. Bigyan natin ng chance na magkaroon ng tournament dito sa ating lalawigan,” Castro stated.
Governor Daniel R. Fernando also voiced strong support for the initiative, pointing out how athletic programs serve as a powerful tool for youth development and community building.
“Ang pinaka importante po dito ay ’yung camaraderie, makakuha ng kaibigan, and makapag focus sa sports para ang ating kabataan ay mailayo natin sa mga bisyo,” Fernando said.
With a massive P500,000 prize pool on the line, the ACPBL Makata Cup is more than just a tournament, it is a celebration of fitness, discipline, and community spirit that cements Bulacan’s status as a rising sports powerhouse. (UnliNews Online)
