Bacolod to host Pickleball Invasion tournament in December

BACOLOD CITY – As pickleball continues to gain popularity across the Philippines, Bacolod City is preparing to host another major competition, Pickleball Invasion 2026, from Dec. 4 to 6.

Billed by organizers as one of the biggest pickleball tournaments in Philippine history, the three-day event is presented by Grace Pharmacy and UNILAB.

Organizers recently released the tournament’s first teaser video through its official Facebook page, giving enthusiasts a glimpse of what they promise will be an exciting showcase of competition, sportsmanship and wellness.

The event is expected to bring together pickleball players, enthusiasts and sports communities from different parts of the country while promoting physical fitness, active lifestyles and community involvement.

Championing health and wellness, Grace Pharmacy has partnered with UNILAB to organize the sporting event in Bacolod, highlighting the role of sports and physical activity in building healthier communities.

Crystal Canillo, marketing head of Pickleball Invasion 2026, said the tournament is envisioned as more than just a sporting competition, serving as a gathering that will bring people together through their shared passion for the game.

“We want Pickleball Invasion to be an experience that goes beyond the court,” Canillo said.

She added that the initiative aims to bring communities together, encourage people to embrace healthier and more active lifestyles, and create a sporting event that Bacolod and the entire Philippines can take pride in.

As preparations continue, organizers are expected to release more details in the coming days to build excitement for the tournament.

Among the upcoming announcements are the official lineup of event partners, tournament officials and members of the core organizing team, as well as the venue for the three-day competition.

Registration guidelines, tournament categories and other important event information will also be released through the tournament’s official communication channels.

Pickleball Invasion 2026 is expected to attract players from different areas and further strengthen Bacolod’s growing reputation as a destination for competitive pickleball.

The upcoming tournament follows the inaugural Benitez Million Pickleball Cup, held from Oct. 16 to 18 as part of the city’s MassKara Festival celebration.

Spearheaded by Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez, the tournament offered a total prize pool of PHP 1 million and drew approximately 800 players from across the country.

The Benitez Million Pickleball Cup also promoted wellness and community involvement by supporting the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation’s child nutrition program through contributions from participants’ registration fees.

With another major tournament scheduled in December, Bacolod is set to provide more opportunities for pickleball players to compete, connect and contribute to the sport’s continued growth in Negros Occidental.