Siquijor is strengthening its presence on the country’s tennis map as it hosts the inaugural Governor’s Cup Open and Junior Championships, drawing a huge field to the Capitol Tennis Courts and other venues across the province.

The Open tournament fires off Tuesday with JB Aguilar and Nilo Ledama leading a 32-player men’s draw that includes a host of local standouts eager to test their mettle for the top P50,000 purse.

Also in the field are Eric Jay Tangub, Vicente Anasta, John Sonsona, Richard Bautista, Hazer Malicay and Matthew Morrison, among other players expected to provide stiff competition in the tournament hosted and sponsored by Siquijor Gov. Jake Vincent Villa.

The event also features Legends competitions in the 35-and-under and 50-and-under categories, with singles and doubles events on tap.

But the spotlight will largely be on the juniors, with the tournament, sanctioned by Philta and Universal Tennis Ranking and supported by Dunlop, ICON Golf & Sports and Palawan Group of Companies, set to serve off on 17 September.

Morris and Malicay headline the boys’ division, joined by Andrian Rodriguez and Rafa Callao, while Alexa Cruspero, Etha Seno, Jhaira Lanterna and Marypauren Balolong loom as players to watch in the girls’ side of the Group 2 tournament conducted under the Palawan Pawnshop nationwide talent-search.

The overwhelming response from young players has prompted organizers to tap additional courts in Larena, Siquijor and Ibabaw to accommodate the entries.

The turnout underscores the growing interest in tennis among the province’s youth, fueled in part by the remarkable rise of tennis sensation Alex Eala on the international stage.

“Known for its natural beauty and unique appeal as a tourist destination, Siquijor is also determined to expand its tennis program and create more opportunities for our young athletes to develop their talents and pursue their dreams,” Villa said.