PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan (PIA) -- Puerto Princesa City, for the second time hosted the World Table Tennis–Youth Contender WTT-YC) as it formally opened on April 29, at the Edward S. Hagedorn Coliseum, where over 160 players from 12 countries including the Philippines compete in the sports event.

Among the countries participating are The Philippines, Australia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, The Netherlands, and Singapore.

In a press conference, World Table Tennis International referee Rachel Ramos, said that players will be competing in female singles, female doubles, male singles, male doubles, and mixed doubles in the Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19 categories.

Ramos explained that this competition is for every table tennis players ranking to secure spots in the future world higher competition.

Meanwhile, sports director Gregorio Austria, said that this sports event will greatly help the city's economy in various ways.

During the opening ceremony, Mayor Lucilo R. Bayon invited the public to watch this international game taking place in the city to inspire the players.

“To our kababayans, please come and watch the games to inspire the players to play their best. Your support and presence will make this event more special,” Bayron said.

Bayron also reminded the players that their competition is not only to represent their countries but also to unite the tennis community.

“As you compete on this international stage, you are not just sending your countries but uniting the table tennis community as well,” he added.

Ting C. Ledesma, WTT-YC Event Manager and President of the Philippine Table Tennis Federation, Inc. thanked the city government for supporting the said event.

“We are grateful to our beloved Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron for his unwavering support and belief in PTTF vision. PTTF is committed to promoting table tennis nationwide and the WTT-YC series is an ideal platform for young athletes to showcase their talents. The event fosters friendship and camaraderie among children and enables them to learn and improve in a faster phase compared to the older players. Let us continue to nurture talents, promote unity, and advance the sport of table tennis,” said Ledesma.

World Table Tennis – Youth Contender can be watched for free until May 5, 2024. (OCJ/PIA MIMAROPA - Palawan)