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When and How was Badminton introduced in the Philippines?

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When and How was Badminton introduced in the Philippines?

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Badminton was introduced to the Philippines during the American colonial period in the early 1900's. It started as a recreational game played in exclusive clubs and schools by Americans and wealthy Filipinos. Over time, the sport became more popular among locals and spread throughout different regions in the country.

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How did Local Badminton Tournaments begin?

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How did Local Badminton Tournaments begin?

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As the sport gained popularity, local badminton clubs and schools started organizing friendly matches and small tournaments. By the 1950s and 1960s, badminton became part of inter-school competitions and university sports festivals. In 1952, the Philippine Badminton Association (PBA) was formed to officially govern the sport. This led to the creation of national championships and allowed the Philippines to join international competitions like the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and Asian Games.

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Today, tournaments are held nationwide, from barangay and city leagues to big events like Palarong Pambansa, National Open, and junior championships supported by both government and private sponsors

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Weena Lim made history as the first Filipino badminton player to qualify and compete in the Olympic Games, representing the country in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. She also won the first ladies doubles gold for the Philippines with Kennie Asuncion and secured a bronze medal in the 1997 SEA Games. Her Olympic participation was a breakthrough moment for Philippine badminton on the world stage. Weena is widely recognized as a trailblazer who proved Filipino athletes could shine globally.

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Kennie Asuncion partnered with Weena Lim to win the first-ever gold medal in ladies doubles for the Philippines and later earned a bronze in the 1997 SEA Games. She continued to represent the country with distinction, winning a bronze in the mixed doubles at the 2001 Bangkok Open alongside her brother. Her consistent international success made her one of the country’s most celebrated female badminton players. Kennie is admired for her skill, dedication, and contributions to the sport’s growth in the Philippines.

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Kennevic Asuncion won bronze medals in both men’s singles and mixed doubles (with his sister Kennie) at the 2001 Bangkok Open. In 2002, he made history again as the first Filipino to win a silver medal in men’s singles at the 11th Asian University Games. His victories brought pride and recognition to Filipino male badminton players. Kennevic is known for his powerful playing style and for raising the standard of Philippine badminton internationally.

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Melvin Llanes became the first Philippine champion at the Prince Asian Juniors Championship for the 16-under age group in 1995. This early win brought international attention to the country’s potential in badminton. His success paved the way for more junior players to believe they could compete abroad. Melvin is remembered as one of the pioneers of Philippine badminton in international youth competitions.

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SINANGOTE, JULIE ANN UA-O

TABOCLAON, CLAIRE MALUENDA

TAMAYO, JU KYRAN BUHUISAN

TOMONGLAY, BEVERLYN