As the country prepares to host a large sporting tournament at the start of the year.
“I am confident that the shared resources and ideas of the NST-IAC will drive sports tourism to its fullest potential — attracting global attention while showcasing the world-class athleticism and hospitality of the Filipino people.”
That is what Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio said as the country braces for its hosting of the first-ever Philippine Women’s Open.
The first WTA 125 tournamet in the Philippines, the international tennis meet will bring together various stars of the sport from January 26 to 31, 2026 in Manila. According to the PSC, the event is a milestone inspired by the rise of Filipina sensation Alex Eala, who currently stands 50th in the world singles’ ranking.
The hosting is further reinforced by a major investment to refurbish the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center, in collaboration with Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), ensuring the venue meets WTA standards and brings the sport closer to the local tennis community.
The said hosting is also powered by the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC), which was created under Administrative Order No. 38, and chaired by the Philippine Sports Commission. The Department of Tourism holds the vice-chair position.
The NST-IAC is an initiative uniting key agencies with the aim of driving economic growth, strengthen cultural exchange, and boost the country’s global image through sports tourism.
For his part, TIEZA COO Mark Lapid said, “Definitely, it can attract tourists while the families of each participant will come and experience our unique Filipino hospitality.”
Meanwhile, Philippine Tennis Association Secretary General John Rey Tiangco noted that the 2026 Philippine Women’s Open provides renewed inspiration for grassroots athletes and coaches as they immerse in international-level competition and facilities. “We are actually building the whole ecosystem for a stronger Philippine Tennis,” he said.