DAVAO — Digos City is gearing up for a unique sporting event that blends athletic competition with vital public health advocacy. The World AIDS Day Pickleball Tournament 2026 will officially take place on December 11 at the Pickleball Point Sports Center, inviting local residents to play with purpose and passion.
A Rally for Health and Inclusion
Organized by the Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC) of Digos City, the tournament aims to foster community engagement while actively raising awareness about HIV prevention. It encourages participants to smash the stigma and rally for understanding through the unifying and universal language of sports.
The highly anticipated tournament features five distinct categories designed to comfortably accommodate various experience levels. Players can compete in Novice Men's and Women's Doubles, Rookie Mixed Doubles, and Intermediate Men's and Women's Doubles, ensuring that everyone from absolute beginners to seasoned athletes can join.
Competition Across All Skill Levels
Registration is open exclusively to Davao del Sur residents for a fee of ₱800 per player. Organizers have strictly capped the available slots at 16 teams per category, encouraging participants to secure their spots early. Attractive cash prizes await the top finishers in each bracket, adding an exciting competitive edge to the charitable affair.
The modest registration fee provides a comprehensive package that extends far beyond the pickleball court. Participants will receive a free World AIDS Day event shirt, complimentary snacks, and essential health supplies. These thoughtful inclusions are designed to make the experience highly rewarding for every attendee.
More Than Just a Game
Crucially, the community event offers free confidential HIV counseling and rapid testing directly on-site. By seamlessly integrating these essential health services into a lively sports gathering, the RHWC ensures that players and spectators can easily access vital information and take proactive steps toward their well-being.
Beyond the thrill of the highly competitive matches, the tournament serves as a powerful platform for meaningful social change. It actively challenges long-standing misconceptions and promotes a highly supportive environment where individuals affected by HIV are treated with dignity, understanding, and profound respect.
Building a Stigma-Free Community
The inspiring event proves that sports can effectively unite people for a purpose far greater than the game itself. By encouraging informed choices and open dialogue, the local community takes a significant stride toward eliminating discrimination and building a healthier, more inclusive future for everyone.
Local organizers believe that combining physical fitness with health education creates a lasting impact. As players rally on the court, they also champion a critical cause that saves lives. The tournament stands as a testament to the city's commitment to holistic wellness and social responsibility.
