PH Picklers Mark ‘Dink‑Dependence Day’ in Style with 1st ArenaPlus‑KaTribu Pickleball Tournament
What began as a competitive showdown turned into a full‑blown celebration of camaraderie, community, and sport as the 1st ArenaPlus‑KaTribu Pickleball Tournament lit up The Dink Lab Elite in Kawit, Cavite. Timed perfectly with the Philippines’ 128th Independence Day, the event was aptly dubbed the Dink‑Dependence Day Showdown—and it lived up to its billing.
A remarkable 268 players arrived from across Luzon to contest titles in beginner, novice, low intermediate, and high intermediate divisions. From the opening serve by former Senator Cynthia Villar to the closing raffle draw that sent lucky winners home with hotel stays and even round‑trip tickets to Japan, the day was packed with action and festivity.
The DAILY TRIBUNE, together with ArenaPlus, the Philippine Sports Commission, and JC Premiere, ensured no one left empty‑handed. Food stalls, giveaways, and raffle prizes kept spirits high, while the matches themselves delivered drama and quality. Real‑life partners Christi Villarante and Joey Anne Ramos pocketed P15,000 after triumphing in the women’s division, while Mark Anthony Luzon and Jayson Corre ruled the men’s newbie category. Other standouts included Sandra Hilali and Crizzel Hilai in the women’s novice bracket, Angelo Barron and Miguel Jimenez in the men’s novice, and Jonnielyn Ramos and Laly Bugayong in the women’s low intermediate.
The high intermediate division produced the biggest shock of the day, with Team Dink Lab stalwarts Shiela Rodriguez and Cindy Quijano defending home court against Philippine Pickleball Federation president Shery Anne Cu and Terry Lim Sarmiento. In the men’s high intermediate finale, Mandaluyong’s Kristopher Tesorio and Augustine Evardo edged out local favourites Bon Baga and Cristobal Rañoa Jr. in a nail‑biting finish.
Beyond the competition, the event was a showcase of pickleball’s rapid rise in the Philippines. PSC chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio praised the organisers for fostering not just competition but also friendship and goodwill. Ambassadors, sponsors, and community leaders all played their part in creating an atmosphere that was festive yet fiercely competitive.
As the night drew to a close, raffle winners capped off the celebration with smiles as wide as their victories. “This is the most successful pickleball tournament we’ve ever participated in,” said Jayjey Palacios, who, alongside Sofia Castillo, won both runner‑up honours and the coveted Japan trip.
The Dink‑dependence Day Showdown proved more than a tournament—it was a statement of pickleball’s growing presence in the country. With promises of an even grander edition next year, the KaTribu community has set the bar high for how sport and celebration can come together in true Filipino fashion.
