Aces, rising stars boost Olivarez Cup

MANILA, Philippines – The country’s top netters, leading juniors and rising stars brace for a three-week showdown of power and wits as they slug it out in the Olivarez Cup 2016 presented by Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala on Aug. 4-21 at the Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque.

Francis Casey Alcantara and Khim Iglupas set out for a repeat of their title romps in the centerpiece Open singles division but a slew of others, including PJ Tierro, Johnny Arcilla and Vicente Anasta, and Marian Capadocia, Marinel Rudas and the Patrimonio sisters – Clarice and Christine – will be coming into the event all geared up, guaranteeing another fierce battle for top honors in the top ranking tournament held in honor of former Parañaque Mayor Pablo Olivarez.

“It will be another three-week showcase of the best in tennis with so many young, promising players raring to showcase their wares against the veterans,” said Philta president and incumbent Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez, who helped put up the event along with Rep. Eric Olivarez and Dr. Pablo Olivarez as part of the family’s long-time commitment to develop the sport and help in the talent-search.

With Palawan Pawnshop as chief backer and Slazenger as the official ball, the Olivarez Cup also features the junior age-group and the interschool individual and team events.

“It is our desire to help and further develop the sport and produce world class players because we believe that Filipino netters can be at par with the best,” said Palawan Pawnshop COO Bobby Castro.

Open listup is ongoing with deadline set on Aug. 5. To accommodate the big number of entries, organizers have scheduled qualifying rounds for men’s and women’s singles and doubles from Aug. 9-12.

For details, call up tournament organizer Bobby Mangunay, the PPS-PEPP sports program development director at 0915-4046464.