Tennis star Alex Eala’s father, Mike Eala, lauded Philippine Sports Commission Chairperson Patrick “Pato” Gregorio for the successful staging of the first Philippine Women’s Open at Rizal Memorial Tennis Center. He praised the event for inspiring the nation and celebrated the achievement of hosting a world-class tournament in the Philippines.

Gregorio shared Eala’s words, quoting him as saying, “What a winner event. You have gifted the nation. Continue to gift the nation with these wonderful sporting events. The inspiration it ignites is immeasurable.” Eala also added, “Thank you for making this happen! On to the next.”

The PSC chief, who oversaw the country’s first WTA 125 tournament, emphasized that hosting such an event required collaboration and could not be credited to a single person. The tournament was organized by the Philippine Tennis Association under president Paranaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez and secretary-general Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco, and sanctioned by the Women’s Tennis Association.

Collaboration key to international success

Gregorio highlighted the importance of teamwork in delivering a successful international event. “Just like it takes a community to create world-class athletes, it also takes several collaborators to create an international sporting event that we can all be proud of,” he said.

He praised the PSC staff who worked tirelessly to create an ideal environment, along with key partners such as the Manila City government under Mayor Isko Moreno, the DPWH led by Secretary Vince Dizon, the MMDA, TIEZA under Mark Lapid, and local police authorities. Their joint effort ensured the tournament could be hosted efficiently and safely.

The chairperson also pointed to the record-time preparations as evidence of the Filipino can-do and bayanihan spirit. “That we were able to do all these in record time is the prime example of the collaborative effort and spirit of the Filipino,” Gregorio noted.

Showcasing the Philippines’ sports tourism potential

The tournament, which has been attracting sellout crowds, was an example of the income potential envisioned by the National Sports Tourism-Inter Agency Committee under Administration Order No. 38 by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Gregorio said hosting international events can have lasting benefits for Philippine sports tourism.

He also cited the positive feedback from international players. “Even the international players have been raving about our hosting. Imagine the words passed on by these players to their countrymen. These sentiments will be immeasurable,” Gregorio said, underlining the lasting impact of the tournament on the country’s reputation as a sports destination.