By ASNAIRAH PAUDAC and ALETHEA GENE MAGHANOY

CAGAYAN de Oro City — Once considered an unfamiliar sport in the Philippines, pickleball is now drawing students, families, office workers, and even retirees into courts across the country.

Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing recreational sports in the Philippines because of one simple reason: almost anyone can play it.

In cities like Cagayan de Oro, dedicated courts are rapidly increasing as more Filipinos search for affordable ways to stay active, socialize, and relieve stress.

Why Filipinos Are Hooked

For many players, pickleball’s biggest advantage is accessibility.

“It’s easy to learn and fun to play,” said player Olien Araneta, who first discovered the sport through friends.

Araneta said the game helps her stay active while also giving his a chance to relax and bond with other players.

“Beginners and experienced players can both enjoy it,” he added.

Player Sweet Bernal described pickleball as a more relaxed alternative to badminton.

“It’s chill compared to badminton, but you still get exercise,” he said, adding that families can also enjoy the sport together.

Meanwhile, player Kent Vidal said many young people are drawn to pickleball because of its simple gameplay and social atmosphere.

“Dali ra tun-an,” he said. “It’s a good stress reliever.”

Affordable — But Not Always Cheap

Compared to many sports, pickleball is considered relatively affordable.

Basic paddles and balls cost less than equipment used in tennis or badminton, where shuttlecocks and rackets can become expensive over time.

In Cagayan de Oro, QSports Club offers courts starting at P300 per hour, while paddle rentals cost P250 for whole-day use.

The sports facility allows online reservations through GCash and Maya, making bookings easier for players.

Meanwhile, Eagle Ridge Sports Clubhouse offers rates as low as P200 per hour for members and P300 for non-members.

Still, some players say costs can rise once players invest in premium paddles or frequently rent courts.

Government Steps Into the Game

Pickleball players in Misamis Oriental now have another, more affordable option after the provincial government officially opened a new sports facility at the Capitol grounds. Related story: Misor opens affordable pickleball hub in Capitol grounds

On June 19, Governor Juliette Uy led the inauguration of the Unity Sports Facility and Dancing Fountain at De Lara Park, giving residents and visitors access to dedicated pickleball courts and recreational spaces.

The new venue features a high-quality playing surface, night lighting, an open-air lounge, Wi-Fi and charging stations, locker and changing rooms, refreshment areas, and meeting spaces for sports activities.

Uy said the facility was designed to provide athletes, young people, government employees, and residents with access to quality sports amenities while promoting healthier lifestyles and stronger community interaction.

The development adds to growing efforts by local governments to make pickleball more accessible outside private sports clubs.

A Sport Growing Beyond Private Clubs

Pickleball first gained attention in the Philippines in 2016 through training clinics in Cebu led by American professional player Sara Ash.

The sport later expanded into cities such as Makati and Pasig, where organized communities helped popularize the game nationwide.

Today, courts can be found in major urban centers across the country, including more than 30 dedicated courts in Cagayan de Oro alone.

However, most facilities remain privately owned, making regular play difficult for some residents.

In Misamis Oriental, the municipality of Naawan is also developing an LGU-supported multi-purpose sports facility that includes public pickleball courts.

The initiative aims to make the sport more accessible while encouraging residents to adopt healthier lifestyles.

More Than a Trend

Beyond competition, many players say pickleball’s real appeal lies in its ability to bring people together.

Unlike highly demanding sports, pickleball offers lighter physical activity while still improving fitness, coordination, and mental well-being.

For working adults, students, and families looking for affordable recreation, the sport is becoming more than just a trend — it is turning into a growing community activity.

And as more courts open across the country, players believe pickleball may soon become one of the Philippines’ most accessible sports.