Manny Pacquiao Launches Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour
Yes — boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has officially launched the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour (MPPT), a professional league with a P5 million prize pool that is set to transform the competitive pickleball landscape in the Philippines.
Announced at a press conference in General Santos City on June 15, 2026, the MPPT is Pacquiao's latest sports venture following his successful involvement in basketball, boxing promotions, and esports. The tour will feature four legs across the country, culminating in a grand finals event in Manila.
Tour Format and Schedule
The MPPT consists of four regional qualifying legs and a championship finals. Each leg offers P500,000 in prize money, with the grand finals offering an additional P3 million. Categories include men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles.
Leg 1: General Santos City (July 18-19, 2026)
Leg 2: Cagayan de Oro (August 15-16, 2026)
Leg 3: Iloilo City (September 12-13, 2026)
Leg 4: Baguio City (October 10-11, 2026)
Grand Finals: SM Mall of Asia Arena (November 7-8, 2026)
Why This Matters for Philippine Pickleball
Pacquiao's involvement brings unprecedented mainstream attention and financial muscle to the sport. With a global social media following of over 50 million, his endorsement effectively introduces pickleball to a massive new audience.
"Pickleball is a sport for every Filipino — rich or poor, young or old," Pacquiao said during the launch. "I want to give our players a professional platform where they can compete, earn, and inspire the next generation."
Registration and Participation
Registration for each leg costs P1,500 per player (P3,000 per doubles team) and includes a tournament shirt and welcome kit. Players of all skill levels are welcome, with divisions for 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, and 4.5+ ratings. Registration is open through the MPPT website and at SM Active Hub counters.
The MPPT represents a major step forward for professional pickleball in Asia. With Pacquiao's backing, the Philippines is positioning itself as a regional leader in the sport's development.