Amidst the UAAP Season 87 Table Tennis tournaments last November, deputy commissioner Handel Yap stood as a guiding presence behind the scenes, helping orchestrate the success of the championships held at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque.
While the competition on the table was intense, off the court, Yap, who is based in Cebu, was balancing his roles – serving as deputy commissioner, working alongside commissioner Pong Ducanes, and overseeing his family businesses, including Asta Trading in Cebu, which distributes table tennis equipment.
“Juggling both roles is no easy task,” Yap admitted. “However, my experience in managing private international events has provided insights into running the tournaments, which are more systematic in nature.”
His approach? Delegation is key, and utilizing technology has helped streamline the process, reducing time and travel demands.
Despite table tennis evolving more into a personal hobby for health reasons, Yap’s dedication to the sport remained.
“Table tennis has been a part of my lifestyle for years,” he shares. “It’s more than just a sport – it’s a passion that has helped me stay fit and connected to the community.”
Handel’s love for table tennis began with a family connection.
“My passion started with my cousin, Bill Yap, who was a serious and passionate player. In 1996, I enrolled in a table tennis camp in Beijing, China to learn proper techniques,” he recalled. “Later on, I was fortunate to be introduced to our Mr. Rafael San Juan III, who has been guiding me ever since.”
This journey has not been without challenges, but Yap remains focused.
“Time management is critical, especially when balancing the demands of my family business. But the passion I have for table tennis drives me,” he expressed.
Looking ahead, Yap envisions a future where table tennis thrives even more.
“We need to have more coaching seminars and grassroots programs,” he said. “The more coaches we have, the more players they can nurture, which will ultimately elevate the sport.”
With aspirations for wider promotions and support – from live TV events to grassroots leagues – Yap’s commitment to growth is clear.
“We need more tournaments, better training facilities, and stronger support from both private and public sponsors,” he notes. “These are essential steps to bring table tennis to new heights.”
University of Santo Tomas made history by completing an event sweep, going undefeated in all four divisions with a perfect 52-0 record.
Yap saw numerous standouts that have huge potential for the national team and he hopes that these paddlers to grow and gain attention.
