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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider People and Events devider Alex Eala receives hero's welcome at Malacañan

Alex Eala receives hero's welcome at Malacañan

Published Jul 15, 2026 07:07 am
For just one night, it would be fair to say that Malacañan Palace was not located on J. P. Laurel Street, but on "Eala" Avenue. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos were hosting “Tagumpay Nating Lahat,” a homecoming reception for Filipino tennis star Alex Eala. Fresh off her record-setting Round of 16 finish at this year's Wimbledon, and before heading to the US for tune-up tournaments leading to the US Open, Alex was back in town. As the President quipped, the real reason they had organized this special evening was so he could have a photo taken standing beside her.
Rizza Maniego Eala, the First Lady, the President, Alex, and Mike Eala (Photos: Philip Cu Unjieng)
Rizza Maniego Eala, the First Lady, the President, Alex, and Mike Eala (Photos: Philip Cu Unjieng)
The President recounted how he was in Canada on a state visit when he watched her third-round match against Iga Swiatek and admired her post-match interview. More than a year ago, he had been asked what he thought of Alex, and he replied that she was only getting started in achieving great things for herself and for the Philippines. He said he was overjoyed that she was proving him right.
The President in a very light mood, welcoming Alex to the Palace.
The President in a very light mood, welcoming Alex to the Palace.
Jo Ann B. Eala and Irene Marcos-Araneta.
Jo Ann B. Eala and Irene Marcos-Araneta.
Al Tengco and Frederick Go
Al Tengco and Frederick Go
Lizzie Zobel, the First Lady, Bettina Aboitiz, Alex Eala, and Karen Santos
Lizzie Zobel, the First Lady, Bettina Aboitiz, Alex Eala, and Karen Santos
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the applause for Alex Eala at Malacañan’s Ceremonial Hall.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the applause for Alex Eala at Malacañan’s Ceremonial Hall.
Alex Eala giving her speech
Alex Eala giving her speech
As for Alex, she began her remarks by saying that never in her wildest dreams, as a young girl, had she imagined giving a speech at Malacañan Palace or finding herself in the position she is in today. She expressed her deep gratitude, on behalf of her family, for the recognition and assured everyone in the Ceremonial Hall that she proudly carries the colors of the Philippine flag whenever she steps onto a tennis court, no matter where she is in the world. Like a bride at a wedding reception, Alex then went from table to table, posing for photos with everyone who had come to honor her.
We can only wish her the very best and pray that her first WTA Tour title comes soon.

Related Tags

people and events Alex Eala President Bongbong Malacañan Palace
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