Higher WTA event in PH possible, but complicated
Published Feb 2, 2026 04:38 pm
At A Glance
- And based on the observation by the WTA officials of the recently concluded PWO, which was spearheaded by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Tennis Association (Philta), an event of a higher tier is possible yet complicated in so many ways.
Croatia's Donna Vekic takes the spotlight in the maiden WTA 125 Philippines Women's Open in Manila last week. (PWO)
Following the staging of the inaugural WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open, an event inspired by the success of Filipina top netter Alex Eala, tennis made a significant leap in popularity, leaving Filipino fans eager for bigger events.
And based on the observation by the WTA officials of the recently concluded PWO, which was spearheaded by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Tennis Association (Philta), an event of a higher tier is possible yet complicated in so many ways.
“Of course, people want bigger [and] better ones, that’s expected, but that's a different process. Because of the 125, the franchise, you get directly from WTA,” said Philta secretary general and Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco.
Unlike the WTA125, where the host talks directly to the Billie Jean King-founded organizing body of women’s professional tennis, the 250, 500, and 1000 levels are under the private companies or individuals that hold the tournament licenses.
Though, when all set and done, all of these tiers would work hand in hand with the government and the national federation to ensure the smooth staging of the competition by fulfilling their respective assignments.
“WTA doesn’t offer 250s, 500, 1000 anymore, it’s owned by a private entity, so you have to deal with them. It’s either you lease or you buy the franchise,” Tiangco continued.
“You have to negotiate, hindi sya sure thing,” he added. “Kasi may limited number lang [ang 250, 500, at 1000.]”
The PWO was staged under the watchful eyes of WTA officials, including WTA supervisor Cristina Romero, who has nothing but praises to the country’s hosting, stressing the Philippines is capable of catering a bigger event.
“Listen, this is something that is decided by my superiors. Of course, with my feedback on the tournament and how the organization did a great event,” said Romero. That can help to know that the Philippines is prepared to do a worldwide event. That is for sure.”
“Now, the other thing is that the tournament and the calendar has to be prepared by different people. There's the Players' Council, there's the Tournament Council. So that is a decision that comes from the organization and we will have to see if they have a spot in the calendar to do it,” she added.
PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio previously stressed the country’s intention of holding a 250 event, a move that aims to inspire the youth and give exposure to rising stars of Philippine Tennis.