The Gentry Open Tennis Championships is set to make history once again as organizers announced a P3-million prize pool for the tournament's second edition scheduled from Aug. 20 to 30 at the CSA Tennis Stadium in Del Monte, Bulacan.

Entrepreneur and sports patron Hayb "Pareng Hayb" Anzures, founder of Gentry Timepieces and chairman of the organizing committee, unveiled the tournament's biggest-ever prize fund during the official media launch on Friday, July 10, at the Function Room in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

"Business has given me the opportunity to give back, and tennis is where I chose to make a meaningful impact," said Anzures.

"The Gentry Open is our commitment to helping Filipino athletes dream bigger, compete harder, and believe they can succeed on larger stages. That is what motivates me and my team. If we want Philippine tennis to grow, we must all be willing to invest in its future," he added.

Joining Anzures during the launch were representatives from tournament partners Palawan Group of Companies and SkyWarrior Philippines, the tournament's official ball partner.

Following the success of its inaugural staging last year, the Gentry Open returns with a larger prize fund, a stronger field, and an expanded commitment to Philippine tennis.

Anzures said the tournament represents more than just a sporting event, describing it as a long-term investment in people, purpose, and national pride.

"We believe Filipino athletes deserve a professionally organized tournament that provides world-class competition while inspiring the next generation to embrace the sport," he said.

Tournament Director Bobby Mangunay revealed that player registration has been overwhelming, with the main draw nearly filled just days after registration opened. The junior division has already attracted close to 300 participants, prompting organizers to conduct qualifying rounds to accommodate additional entries.

"The response has been tremendous. The main draw is almost full just a week after registration opened, so we'll be holding qualifying matches to give more players a chance to compete," Mangunay said.

This year's champions will also receive significantly bigger rewards. The men's singles champion will take home P400,000, while the women's singles winner will earn P300,000, along with premium prizes and exclusive giveaways.

"What makes this tournament unique isn't only the huge cash prizes," Mangunay said. "Last year's champions also received luxury watches worth even more than their prize money. Players can expect even bigger surprises this year."

Defending champions Tenielle Madis, the country's No. 2 women's player, and Igg Pantino have confirmed their participation as they seek to retain their respective titles against a strong field that includes Marian Capadocia, AJ Lim, Palawan Open champion Chris Papa, and several internationally ranked ITF players.

Beyond the competition, the Gentry Open continues to promote grassroots tennis, sportsmanship, and stronger collaboration between the private sector and the sporting community. The tournament reflects Anzures' belief that business leaders can play a vital role in nation-building by creating opportunities for young Filipino athletes.

"Our goal isn't simply to stage a successful tournament every year," Anzures said. "We want the Gentry Open to become an institution—one that develops future champions, strengthens the tennis community, and earns the respect of players and organizations across Southeast Asia. Success isn't measured only by trophies, but by the lives we help shape through sports."