Pacquiao to launch Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour

MANILA, Philippines–Pickleball, considered one of the fastest-rising sports in the country, is set for a major boost in the Philippines with the launch of the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour (MPPT) later this year.

Leading the project is Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who is once again venturing into league-building years after founding the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).

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The MPPT will operate as a professional league sanctioned by the Games and Amusements Board, featuring teams from Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in a weekends-only competition with a prize pool of at least P5 million.

“It’s always been my mission to promote sports and give our athletes a platform to showcase their talents and bring pride and honor to their cities and provinces,” Pacquiao said in a press release.

“I know it’s a relatively new sport in the Philippines, but it’s exciting and easy to learn. There is an abundance of up-and-coming talents in pickleball in the country. Giving them a chance to represent their cities and provinces will make the experience even more meaningful for them and those in their communities.”

Pacquiao has also taken an interest in the sport personally, playing pickleball recreationally with his wife, Jinkee, at their General Santos City compound.

MPPT chief executive officer Joe Ramos said three teams have already confirmed participation, with the inaugural eight-team field expected to be finalized this month.

The tour will begin with a five-leg invitational this year. Teams will consist of three men’s and three women’s players competing in men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles.

Round-robin matches will be played on Saturdays, with the top teams advancing to the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals on Sundays.

“This format highlights the depth of talent in Philippine pickleball while creating a competitive and exciting team environment,” said MPPT commissioner Mark K. Espinosa.