Sports
First Gov. Jose Enrique Miraflores Pickleball Tournament Serves Up Excitement, Unites Athletes Across Western Visayas
KALIBO, Aklan – Paddles clashed and cheers echoed across the courts as the inaugural Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores Pickleball Cup officially kicked off, drawing hundreds of sports enthusiasts for a day of healthy competition and camaraderie.
Organized by the Provincial Government of Aklan headed by Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores, part of the province’s drive to promote active lifestyles and boost grassroots sports development.
The said event which runs from April 10-12. 2026 is part of the highlight of the province’ 70th year Foundation Day. It is currently held in three locations: the Courtroom-Kalibo; New Buswang Barangay Multi-Purpose Hall, and in the Evergreen Resorts.
Normeth Parzhuber, of the World Pickleball Championships-Western Visayas (WPC) said some P380,000 cash prizes were at stakes in 18 categories.
“There are also Pickleball players coming from other countries such as the USA. China, Slovakia among others,” Parzhuber said.
In a press conference at the Courtroom, Parzhuber was joined by Pickleball-Aklan basic coach Faye Quinto, Pickleball enthusiasts Inna Palarca and Gamille de Juan.
“For us, Pickleball players, we join the game not just to win but what is more important is to socialize and network from all other players all around the world,” Quinto said.
During the tournament, matches were held across multiple categories to cater to everyone: men’s singles, women’s singles, mixed doubles, and team events, with separate divisions for youth, adult, and senior players. Pickleball’s rising popularity in the region—known for being easy to learn and suitable for all ages—made the event open to both competitive athletes and casual hobbyists.
“This tournament is more than just winning trophies. It is our way of bringing Ilonggos together, encouraging healthy habits, and spotting local talents that can represent the region in bigger regional and national competitions,” Governor Miraflores said.
He added that naming the event after his office reflects the provincial government’s full commitment to supporting sports and recreation programs that serve all sectors of the community.
Athletes praised the event for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, noting that it became an avenue to grow the local pickleball community beyond just games.
Organizers announced that the Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores Pickleball Tournament will be held yearly, with plans to expand categories and invite more participants from across all over the region in future editions.
