Bacolod Gears Up for Pickleball Invasion 2026, Billed Among Biggest Tournaments in Philippine History
Bacolod has barely had time to catch its breath. Not long after the MassKara Festival tournament, the City of Smiles is already preparing for another big one. Pickleball Invasion 2026 is set for 4–6 December 2026, and organisers say it will be one of the biggest pickleball tournaments in Philippine history.
The Event
The three-day tournament is presented by Grace Pharmacy and UNILAB. Organisers have already released the first teaser video on the event’s official Facebook page, promising a showcase of competition, sportsmanship and wellness.
The event is expected to draw players, enthusiasts and sports communities from across the country, with a focus on physical fitness, active lifestyles and community involvement. Grace Pharmacy and UNILAB’s partnership is built around health and wellness, highlighting the role of sport in building healthier communities.
Crystal Canillo, marketing head of Pickleball Invasion 2026, said the aim goes beyond the scoreboard. “We want Pickleball Invasion to be an experience that goes beyond the court,” she said.
She added that the event hopes to bring communities together, encourage healthier and more active lifestyles, and give Bacolod and the whole Philippines a sporting event to be proud of.
What’s Still to Come
There are plenty of blanks to fill in. Organisers are expected to release more details in the coming days, including:
- The official lineup of event partners
- Tournament officials and the core organising team
- The venue for the three-day competition
- Registration guidelines and tournament categories
All of this will be released through the tournament’s official communication channels.
Bacolod’s Growing Pickleball Credentials
The city has been busy. Pickleball Invasion follows the inaugural Benitez Million Pickleball Cup, held from 16 to 18 October as part of the MassKara Festival celebration. Spearheaded by Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Javier Miguel Benitez, that tournament had a total prize pool of ₱1 million and drew approximately 800 players from across the country.
It also gave something back. Part of the participants’ registration fees went to support the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation’s child nutrition programme.
With a second major event now lined up, Bacolod is giving players more reasons to travel, compete and connect, and building a reputation as a destination for competitive pickleball in the Philippines.
