The Philippine table tennis community celebrated the successful conclusion of the Home Court Ayala Malls Manila Bay-PTTF Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge, which saw over 600 participants from various elementary, high school, and collegiate leagues across the country.
Organized by the Philippine Table Tennis Federation Inc. (PTTF), the tournament highlighted the growth and potential of the sport, with future editions already being planned to feature even more participants.
“Para sa akin, ito ang isa sa pinaka the best tournament na na-attendnan ko bilang isang coach. Well-organized ang lahat, especially yung sa schedule ng mga games,” said Noel Gonzalez, head coach of the Far Eastern University and former national team coach.
He praised the event for bringing together top talents from different leagues, adding that it provided excellent exposure and experience for student-athletes.
Rizal Technological University and San Beda High School coach Gerald Tuazon emphasized the event’s positive impact on the athletes’ development.
“Malaking tulong sya sa development ng mga bata in sportsmanship, teamwork, improvements of the player, school cooperation with athletes, and most of all, ‘yung socializing ng player sa kapwa player from public, private, and home schools,” Tuazon remarked.
University of the Philippines coach Richard Ching also shared his thoughts on the tournament, calling it a “great experience” for his team.
“The venue was great, there were a lot of participants, and the competition was hosted well. I hope for more of these tournaments to continue in the future,” he said.
Dominating the competition, University of Santo Tomas emerged as the top school with seven titles.
PTTF Secretary General Pong Ducanes spearheaded the tournament’s organization for the second consecutive year.
The event garnered support from prominent institutions, including the Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, Milo, Smart Sports, Ayala Malls Manila Bay Home Court, Cara Celine Dormtel, Gold Cross Security Agency, Topcoms Marketing, Mizuno Philippines, Dino Jalandoni, Eric Ongcauco, and Bombit Silva.
During the opening ceremony, guest speakers inspired the participants to strive for excellence.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy challenged the athletes to dream big, even comparing their potential to the success of Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
“One of you, kahit isa sa inyo ‘yung talagang maging parang Carlos Yulo na makakuha ng gold medal sa Olympics, talagang sisipa ang table tennis sa bansa. And I’m sure that’s what you want. ‘Yun ang challenge natin, ibigay natin ang lahat as an athlete because you already have a good platform and good environment. May one of you or even all of you be transcendental in your own right,” Dy stated.
UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag echoed the sentiment, reminding players to balance their competitive drive with enjoyment.
“Do not let your competitive spirit kill your playful self. Always have fun. Play hard, play smart, and always have fun,” Saguisag advised.
Forthress Philippines Corporation President Edison Dy also encouraged the athletes to continue pursuing the sport, highlighting the many opportunities ahead.
“For the players, there are more programs that are being put up. There are so many venues that are being put in place. Keep on playing and acknowledge the sacrifices of each player. There are no losers on this occasion. This is a stepping stone,” Dy concluded.
As the tournament came to a close, the PTTF reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of table tennis athletes, with plans to expand the competition in the coming years.
