TAGBILARAN CITY — The first Sandugo sa Bohol Badminton Open Tournament began today, July 4, 2026, at the Mansasa Gymnasium, bringing a fresh wave of athletic energy to the province’s biggest cultural festival. The two‑day event welcomes shuttlers of every age and skill level, turning the courts into a celebration of community and sport.
A Tournament for Everyone
Organizers have crafted an unusually inclusive bracket system that ensures no one is left on the sidelines. Young athletes compete in the 12 & Under singles and doubles, while the 16 & Under doubles gives teenagers a taste of structured competition. These divisions give promising juniors a platform to showcase their talent and build confidence.
The adult categories are equally inviting. Men’s and women’s singles offer a stage for serious competitors, while the novice and beginners’ brackets welcome first‑timers who simply want to experience tournament play. Mixed doubles rounds out the lineup, pairing players in a format that rewards communication and teamwork.
By accommodating such a wide range of abilities, the tournament turns into more than a contest. Families can participate side by side, cheering each other on from the bleachers. The atmosphere inside Mansasa Gymnasium is electric with encouragement, reflecting the spirit of the Sandugo Festival itself.
Rooted in Festival Tradition
The badminton open is a key event under the “Tigi” stream of the Sandugo sa Bohol 2026 celebration. This stream is dedicated entirely to sports, youth development, and healthy competition. Other Tigi events this year include the Calamay Run Half Marathon and the Sandugo Swimfest, each offering a different athletic challenge.
The Sandugo Festival, commemorating the historic 1565 blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Miguel López de Legazpi, has adopted a more focused and decentralized format this year. Governor Aris Aumentado’s administration has prioritized fiscal responsibility while expanding activities across the province. Savings from streamlined celebrations are being redirected to essential community programs, making every event count.
Boosting Sports Tourism
By hosting the tournament at the Mansasa Gymnasium, the provincial government encourages visitors to explore Tagbilaran’s cultural and historical sites between matches. The venue’s central location makes it easy for out‑of‑town guests to combine sports with sightseeing. This synergy between athletics and tourism is a deliberate strategy to spread economic benefits to local businesses.
The tournament also reinforces Bohol’s image as the Philippines’ first UNESCO Global Geopark. Travelers are encouraged to venture beyond the city to discover the Chocolate Hills, marine sanctuaries, and lush interiors. Every athlete and spectator becomes a potential ambassador for the island’s unique heritage.
A Celebration of Sportsmanship
The packed opening day saw spirited matches across all divisions, with players diving for shuttlecocks and exchanging friendly handshakes at the net. Coaches and families lined the courts, their cheers echoing through the gymnasium. The event has quickly become a meaningful addition to the Sandugo calendar.
The tournament continues through Sunday, July 5, culminating in championship medal ceremonies. For Bohol’s growing badminton community, the inaugural open is more than a tournament—it is a homecoming, a chance to celebrate their sport within the arms of a festival that honors unity, history, and progress.
