Philta Elects New Officers, Anticipates Lifting of ITF Suspension

MANILA: The Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) marked a significant turning point by electing a new set of officers on Monday, a move that is expected to lead to the lifting of its three-year suspension by the International Tennis Federation (ITF). Philta had been suspended by the ITF in December 2020 due to issues of exclusive membership and lack of regional representation.

According to Philippines News Agency, The election, supervised by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), was held at Century Park Hotel in Manila. Parañaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez was elected as the Philta president. Joining him in leadership are Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino (vice president), Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco (secretary general), Calabarzon’s Gerardo Alcala (treasurer), and Mimaropa’s Theodore Jose Matta (internal auditor). Board members representing various regions were also elected, including Franzes Khu Camacho (Bicol), Theodore Dy (Western Visayas), Elmaerwin Sibucao (Ilocos), Gilbert Paylado (Mindanao), Dickerson Laruan (Cordillera Autonomous Region), Fernando Silapan (Cagayan Valley), Joile Mondragon (Eastern Visayas), Jean Henri Lhuiller (Central Visayas), and Dyan Castillejo and April Toledo for Gender Equity. POC president Abraham Tolentino expressed satisfaction with the election process and the turnout of members from 13 regions, stating, “It’s done. The election was held
, and there’s a new set of officers.” He also mentioned the significant participation, noting that 158 clubs nationwide applied for membership, with 119 being approved by the election committee led by POC secretary-general Wharton Chan, with Billy Sumagui and Carl Sambrano as members. The new leadership is now expected to communicate with the ITF to facilitate the lifting of Philta’s suspension.