The Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour officially introduced its 12 founding teams that will compete in its inaugural tournament during its Social Gathering and Press Event, marking a significant milestone in the league’s mission to establish a nationwide professional pickleball competition.
The event brought together team owners, league partners, stakeholders, and members of the media as the MPPT formally welcomed its pioneering franchises from General Santos City, Tacloban, Batangas, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Rizal, Alfonso (Cavite), Camarines Norte, Pampanga, Bacoor, Bangued, and Abra.
The introduction of the founding teams underscored the league’s commitment to building a truly national competition that unites communities from across the Philippines while creating new opportunities for athletes to compete at the highest level.
The gathering also served as the official launch of the MPPT’s inaugural tournament, with league officials presenting the competition’s vision, tournament roadmap, and long-term plans for the sport.
MPPT Founder and Chairman Manny Pacquiao said the league was created to unite communities and provide Filipino pickleball players with a platform to showcase their talents.
“Today is about welcoming the teams that will become part of MPPT history. These 12 founding teams represent different communities that share one vision—to help grow pickleball in the Philippines. This league is more than a tournament; it is an opportunity to develop athletes, inspire future generations, and build a lasting legacy for the sport,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer Joe Ramos credited the participating franchises and league partners for believing in the MPPT’s vision from the very beginning.
“The introduction of our founding teams is a defining moment for the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour. Their commitment has laid the foundation for a league that is built on collaboration, professionalism, and a shared passion for the sport. We are equally grateful to our partners, whose support has helped transform this vision into reality,” Ramos said.
Throughout the program, the participating teams were formally recognized before the league’s partners and sponsors were introduced, highlighting the strong collaboration that has fueled the launch of the MPPT.
Although unable to attend the event, MPPT Commissioner Mark Espinosa welcomed the league’s founding franchises and expressed his excitement for the competition.
“The unveiling of these 12 teams signals the beginning of a new chapter for Philippine pickleball. Our goal is to provide every team and athlete with a professionally managed tournament founded on integrity, excellence, and fair play. We look forward to delivering a competition worthy of the commitment shown by our founding members,” Espinosa added.
With its founding teams now officially introduced, the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour takes the next step toward staging its first tournament, bringing together communities from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in what promises to be a landmark season for Philippine pickleball.
