PCA Open Committee representatives Chris Cuarto (ADMU Tennis Head Coach), Roland Kraut (DLSU and national tennis coach), and Ivan Ong; Bobby L. Castro, Founder and Chairman, and Bernard V. Kaibigan, Chief Marketing Officer, Palawan Group of Companies at the 43rd PCA Open Event Kick-off.
For a young tennis player, a tournament can be the start of something bigger—a chance to test hard-earned skills, build confidence, and take another step toward a sporting dream.
That opportunity takes center court as the Palawan Group of Companies partners with the Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) for the 43rd PCA Open 2026, supporting a longstanding competition that brings rising talents and established players together.
Known as the “Wimbledon of the Philippines,” the tournament runs from November 2 to December 13, 2026, at the PCA clay courts in Paco, Manila. More than 1,000 entries across eight categories are expected, with over ₱1.3 million in prize money at stake.
Palawan Group Founder and Chairman Bobby L. Castro delivers the ceremonial first serve at the kickoff of the 43rd PCA Open 2026.
Junior events begin on November 2, giving younger competitors their moment on court before the men’s and women’s Open main draws take place from December 5 to 13.
“We have always believed in creating opportunities for Filipinos. Whether through our businesses, community initiatives, or support for various sports, we want to do our part to empower our kababayans to move forward. In sports, sometimes that opportunity begins with something as simple as giving a young player the chance to step onto the court. We thank the Philippine Columbian Association for allowing us to be part of this legacy. We look forward to working together not only to make this year’s tournament successful, but also to help strengthen the future of Philippine tennis,” said Bobby L. Castro, Founder and Chairman of the Palawan Group of Companies.
Giving emerging talent room to grow
Founded in 1907, the PCA has long brought people together through sports and community. Tennis remains central to that tradition, with the PCA Open offering competition for players of different ages and skill levels—from juniors developing their game to contenders pursuing the Open titles.
This year’s partnership comes as Alex Eala’s achievements draw greater attention to Filipino tennis and inspire more young people to pick up a racket. Her participation in Palawan-supported tournaments early in her career illustrates the role local competitions can play in helping aspiring athletes gain experience.
For young competitors, opportunities to play, learn, and return stronger are essential to that journey. Supporting established tournaments helps keep those opportunities available.
“The PCA Open has brought people together through sports and community, with tennis playing an important role in its history. We want to keep the sport accessible, give players opportunities to compete, and inspire more Filipinos to experience the excitement of the game. We thank Palawan Group for supporting this shared goal,” said Ivan Ong, PCA Open Committee Representative.
Building enthusiasm beyond the tournament
For Palawan Group, the partnership also aims to encourage more Filipinos to discover tennis—whether they hope to compete or simply want to enjoy learning a new sport.
“As a proudly Filipino company, we see supporting Philippine tennis as another way to put our commitment to the communities we serve into action. Beyond the tournament itself, we hope initiatives like the Palawan PCA Open will encourage more Filipinos, especially the younger generation, to discover the sport and see it as something they can learn, enjoy, and pursue,” said Bernard V. Kaibigan, Chief Marketing Officer of the Palawan Group of Companies.
As the 43rd PCA Open approaches, the partnership puts the spotlight on what helps a sporting community grow: places to play, opportunities to compete, and support that encourages athletes to keep going.
For the next generation of Filipino players, the road ahead could begin with a first serve on the PCA clay courts.
For tournament information and updates, visit the official Palawan PCA 43rd Open Facebook page.