CITY OF MALOLOS — Vice Governor Alexis C. Castro launched the first-ever province-wide pickleball league, the All Star Champions Pickleball League Makata Cup at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium on October 17, 2026.
In partnership with Topspin Sports, the opening ceremony featured a cheerdance routine, a team presentation, and an oath-taking ceremony, officially bringing together pickleball players, clubs, and sports enthusiasts from different parts of the province.
Following the successful staging of basketball and volleyball tournaments under the Makata Cup, pickleball was introduced as another competitive sporting event through which local talents could be showcased.
Castro initiated the league as part of his continuing vision to promote inclusive sports programs and provide emerging disciplines with opportunities to gain recognition and participation across Bulacan.
“Those who play this are often busy with their jobs; many of our fellow Filipinos are already playing pickleball, so we need to promote the sport here in Bulacan as well. Let’s provide an opportunity to hold a tournament here in our province,” Castro stated.
Governor Daniel R. Fernando also voiced strong support for the initiative, pointing out how athletic programs serve as a powerful tool for youth development and community building.
“The most important thing here is the camaraderie, making friends, and focusing on sports, so that we can steer our youth away from vices,” Fernando said.
With a massive ₱500,000 prize pool on the line, the ACPBL Makata Cup is more than just a tournament, it is a celebration of fitness, discipline, and community spirit that cements Bulacan’s status as a rising sports powerhouse.
