The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has announced that the renovation of the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center is 70 percent complete, as the agency rushes to ready the venue for the country’s historic hosting of the Philippine Women’s Open later this month.
PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio, who inspected the facility alongside Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) officials, confirmed that construction has shifted to a 24-hour schedule to meet the deadline for the WTA 125 tournament, which begins on January 26.
“We are working round-the-clock—no Christmas or New Year breaks—to ensure this facility is transformed into a world-class showcase,” Gregorio said.
The refurbishment, conducted in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), includes the resurfacing of courts and the installation of new spectator seating.
According to PHILTA Executive Director Tonette Mendoza, the venue’s capacity is being expanded to 2,000 seats, significantly exceeding the WTA’s minimum requirement of 750.
The project is part of a broader effort by the PSC to modernize the decades-old Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Beyond the tennis center, improvements are also underway at the complex’s baseball stadium, track oval, and administrative buildings.
The Philippine Women’s Open marks the first time a WTA-sanctioned event will be held in the country.
Tournament organizers expect the upgraded facility to serve as a lasting legacy for Filipino athletes, including top-ranked Filipina star Alex Eala, who has been granted a wildcard entry into the main draw.
Work is expected to be fully completed by next week, just in time for the arrival of international competitors.
