Pickleball may soon find a permanent home in Mandaue City’s sporting landscape. That’s after the City Council passed two resolutions urging its inclusion in school programmes and grassroots development, signalling a strong intent to make the sport more accessible to learners and residents alike.
Councilor Carlo Fortuna spearheaded the move, highlighting pickleball’s growing popularity and its appeal across age groups. He stressed that the resolutions are designed to support students while widening public access to facilities and opportunities for play.
“It really promotes a healthy lifestyle, makes one sweat, keeps us fit,” Fortuna remarked, underscoring the sport’s benefits.
Spaces for Play
Under the proposal, the Mandaue City Sports Commission will identify public areas that can double as pickleball courts during designated hours. Options include the City Sports Complex, portions of the City Hall grounds, barangay gyms, covered courts, and other open spaces.
While tennis courts already exist, dedicated pickleball facilities remain absent. Fortuna believes converting suitable government‑owned venues would allow more residents to take part without relying on costly private courts.
Private pickleball courts typically charge between ₱500 and ₱600 per hour, a steep price for regular play. By opening public facilities, the city aims to keep fees minimal—covering only maintenance or electricity—similar to the model used for public tennis courts.
Fortuna emphasised that accessibility and affordability are central to the proposal. “Everyone, regardless of economic status, should have the chance to learn and play,” he said.
Beyond Schools
The resolutions also encourage the Sports Commission to weave pickleball into grassroots programmes. Barangay‑level tournaments, organised with city and barangay facilities, would give communities a chance to compete and connect through the sport.
Pickleball’s rise in Cebu has already seen warehouses converted into courts to meet demand. In Mandaue, the Council’s push could mark the next step—embedding the sport into everyday life, from classrooms to community spaces.
For a city keen on promoting health and inclusivity, pickleball might just be the perfect fit.
